McGinness hired to lead Simpson College women’s wrestling program 

INDIANOLA, Iowa - Simpson College Director of Athletics Marty Bell announced today the hiring of Jeff McGinness as the first head coach of the Storm women's wrestling program. An experienced coach and national-champion competitor, McGinness will lead the new program as it begins competition in 2022-23. 

McGinness currently serves as an assistant coach and director of recruiting and technical development for the Simpson men's wrestling team. He will retain that role in addition to his duties as head women's wrestling coach.  

"We are thrilled to announce Jeff as the first women's wrestling coach in school history," Bell said.  "He was a driving force in bringing women's wrestling to Simpson through his relationships with USA Women's Head Coach Terry Steiner, the National Wrestling Coaches Association and Wrestle Like a Girl.  He brings a trusted foundation of experience to this position with a strong background as a wrestler, coach and professional. He has extensive competitive and coaching experience with freestyle wrestling and has strong connections throughout the Midwest.  I am extremely excited to see where this program goes under his leadership."  

As a competitor, McGinness was a four-time, undefeated Iowa High School state champion and is considered one of the best wrestlers in state history. He is a multiple-time USA Wrestling High School National Freestyle Champion and remains the youngest American to win a Junior World Freestyle Championship, where he was also named Outstanding Wrestler.  

McGinness went on to win two NCAA Division I National Championships at the University of Iowa under legendary head coach Dan Gable. He also earned multiple first team Academic All-America honors during his time in Iowa City. 

McGinness began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Iowa while attending the University of Iowa College of Law. He continued competing on the international freestyle circuit, qualifying for the 2000 Final Olympic Team Trials. Ultimately, he elected to hang up his competitive shoes to pursue his professional career.  

Prior to joining the Simpson men's wrestling staff in 2020, McGinness coached multiple private and high school clubs in Illinois and Iowa. He was also selected as one of the coaches for the Iowa Junior and Cadet National Freestyle team. 

If you have questions or are interested in participating in women's wrestling, contact McGinness at  jeff.mcginness@simpson.edu  or call 319-383-4485.