Paulson named as Cyclones assistant wrestling coach; Reader volunteer coach

Iowa State announced Wednesday that Travis Paulson will be the new assistant wrestling coach for the Cyclones, while 2011 174-pound NCAA champion Jon Reader will become the program's volunteer assistant coach. Paulson fills the spot left open when Eric Voelker stepped down in June to pursue a career in ministry after one year on staff. Yero Washington is also an assistant to head coach Kevin Jackson.

Here is the press release:

 AMES, Iowa – Former Iowa State three-time All-American wrestler Travis Paulson, who was the No. 1 ranked U.S. wrestler at 74 kilograms (162.8 pounds) over the past year, has joined the Cyclone coaching staff as an assistant coach. Iowa State head coach Kevin Jackson made the announcement Wednesday.

“Travis is a long time member of the Cyclone family,” Jackson said. “He brings energy to our coaching staff, in addition to world class technique and priceless tactical experience. He understands my mental, technical and wrestling philosophy. Travis will oversee all middle weight classes. He is a great addition to our staff.”

Paulson, a three-time All-American for the Cyclones, ended his Iowa State wrestling career with a collegiate record of 106-32, tying Billy Kelly (1984-87) and Zach Roberson (2001-04), on the all-time Iowa State win list. Travis Paulson, competed in high school and at Iowa State his twin, Trent. Trent was also a three-time All-American at Iowa State and a member of the U.S. Freestyle team.

Travis Paulson's performance on the mat was replicated in the classroom, as he earned Academic All-Big 12 accolades all four years. Paulson graduated from Iowa State in 2007 with a bachelor's degree in business management and minor in entrepreneurship studies.

“I am excited,” Paulson said. “I will be training for the 2012 Olympic Games and can be an example as a coach and as someone wrestling toward a goal and the lifestyle that goes with getting to that goal.”

Paulson has excelled in a post-collegiate competition, including winning the 2010 World Team Trials championship at 74 kg. He underwent knee surgery in December, limiting his competitive options heading into 2011.

Travis earned three Iowa prep wrestling titles at Council Bluffs-Lewis Central and posted a prep record of 174-3, including 87-0 his final two seasons. 

Jackson also announced that Jon Reader, the 2011 NCAA 174-pound champion as an Iowa Stater, is joining the coaching staff as a volunteer coach.