Three-time Iowa wrestling All-American joining ISU coaching staff

After an illustrious Iowa wrestling career that included being a three-time All-American, Drake Ayala has reportedly accepted a role on Iowa State 's coaching staff next season. Pat Mineo of The Wrestling Room reported the news of Ayala joining the Cyclones' staff. In his five seasons at Iowa, Ayala compiled an 83-26 record.

The Fort Dodge, Iowa, native was the NCAA runner-up at 125 in 2024 and the NCAA runner-up at 133 in 2025. Ayala owned a 34-13 dual record. 🚨 3x All-American Drake Ayala is officially joining the Iowa State coaching staff, fresh off a standout career with the rival Hawkeyes.

From battling in Carver to now developing talent in Ames… this is gonna be fun. 🔥 @CycloneWR pic. twitter.

com/pKqFto7szF — The Wrestling Room (Pat Mineo) (@MrPatMineo) April 30, 2026 “It’s bittersweet,” Ayala said after his fifth-place finish this past season. “My last time on the mat, you know? It was fun.