Former Peacock wrestler Eric Faught (2019-24) has returned to Upper Iowa as the men's wrestling assistant coach, aiding Head Coach Heath Grimm on the mat in his 25th season at the helm. 
 
"We are excited to get Eric back on campus to serve in a full-time role," said Head Coach Heath Grimm. "His dedication, passion and commitment to the sport of wrestling has been lifelong."
 
Peacock wrestling earned a share of the Great Lakes Valley Conference Championship title last season. Faught earned GLVC First Team honors after going undefeated in league play while posting a 21-5 mark on the year. The former 157-pounder registered five GLVC wins in the 2023-24 season, one by forfeit and the other four by tech fall. He earned GLVC Wrestler of the Week after the last two conference duals.
 
"Eric has experienced plenty of successes on the mat as a competitor; however, I'm equally excited about the impact he can make coaching our student-athletes," noted Grimm. "He has a bright future as a collegiate coach."
 
The Clear Lake, Iowa native qualified for the NCAA DII Wrestling Championships twice in his career. He placed third at the Super Region V on two occasions, along with a fourth-place finish and sixth-place finish. 
 
"I'm very thankful and excited to be welcomed back to Upper Iowa," said Faught. "I am ready to give back to a school that has done so much for me, and I am prepared to develop young men as champions on and off the mat. Go Peacocks!"
 
Men's wrestling is set to open its season on Nov. 9 at the Luther College Open, with their first home duals landing on Nov. 22 against Sioux Falls and Newman.