BRISTOL, Tenn.- The 2026-27 collegiate Women's Wrestling season is underway, and for the third consecutive year, King University stands atop the Conference Carolinas preseason poll as the favorite to win the league championship.
The Tornado have captured both previous conference titles since the sport's inception in Conference Carolinas and are poised to extend their dominance in this rapidly growing NCAA championship sport.
Poll Results: Tornado Take Top Spot
In voting conducted by the league's head coaches—who are not permitted to vote for their own teams—King received 7 of 8 first-place votes and totaled 49 points. Emmanuel University, the 2025-26 runner-up, earned the remaining first-place vote and 43 points, while the University of Mount Olive rounded out the top three with 36 points. The rest of the poll featured Emory & Henry (27), Allen (24), Lincoln Memorial (18), Newberry (16), and Bluefield State (11).
2026-27 Conference Carolinas Women's Wrestling Preseason Poll
- King (49 points, 7 first-place votes)
- Emmanuel (43 points, 1 first-place vote)
- Mount Olive (36 points)
- Emory & Henry (27 points)
- Allen (24 points)
- Lincoln Memorial (18 points)
- Newberry (16 points)
- Bluefield State (11 points)
Tornado Wrestlers to Watch
King's continued success is fueled by a powerful lineup that features several returning All-Americans and regional champions:
- Stella Steigler, Sr. (160 lbs, Orange County, Virginia): Two-time All-America, Region champion
- Virginia Foard, Jr. (124 lbs, Madison, Virginia): Two-time All-America, Region champion
- Ruby Julien-Newsom, So. (130 lbs, San Diego, California): NCAA All-America, Region champion
These standout athletes provide leadership and firepower, making King a formidable opponent and an obvious favorite for the 2026-27 crown.
The Growth of Women's Wrestling
Now in its third year as a Conference Carolinas sport—and second as an NCAA championship—women's wrestling is experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition. King's early dominance, combined with strong competition from programs like Emmanuel and Mount Olive, has helped elevate the profile of the conference and women's wrestling in the region.
The Season Ahead
With a star-studded roster and the target squarely on their backs, the Tornado enter the 2026-27 season with high expectations.
The path to a third straight title will be challenging, but King University has proven they are up to the task. Fans can look forward to another exciting year of women's wrestling as the Tornado pursue championship number three.
