After serving the last 19 years as head coach of the South Dakota State University wrestling program, Jason Liles announced his resignation Thursday, effective immediately.
“I want to thank Coach Liles for his 19 years of service to South Dakota State University and the wrestling community,” SDSU Director of Athletics Justin Sell said.
The winningest coach in SDSU wrestling history with a 148-143-5 record, Liles took over the reins during the 1993-94 season. He built a powerhouse program at the NCAA Division II level, leading teams to nine consecutive top-five finishes at the national tournament from 1994-2002. Liles also coached the Jackrabbits to a North Central Conference title in 1997 and National Wrestling Coaches Association National Duals titles in 1998 and 2000. Under his guidance, SDSU wrestlers won 11 individual national titles and earned All-America honors 47 times.
Starting with the 2004-05 season that included a 10-8 dual record, Liles guided the Jackrabbits through their transition to Division I. SDSU sent wrestlers to the NCAA Championships three times (2007, 2009, 2010).
Liles’ career record stands at 237-171-6 after he compiled an 89-38-1 at NAIA power Montana State-Northern for nine years.
A search for Liles’ replacement will begin immediately.