U of I Wrestling Names Jeremy Hunter as New Head Coach

Hunter, a 25-year veteran of the program, takes over after previous coach's departure.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The University of Illinois has named Jeremy Hunter as the new permanent head coach of the school's wrestling program. Hunter has been with the Illinois wrestling program for 25 years, starting as a volunteer coach in 2001 and becoming a full-time assistant in 2009. He has served under the last three Illinois head coaches. Athletic director Josh Whitman praised Hunter's technical expertise, recruiting abilities, and deep appreciation for the program's history and tradition.

Why it matters

The Illinois wrestling program has a storied history, and the selection of Hunter as the new head coach signals a commitment to continuity and stability within the program. Hunter's long tenure and familiarity with the team and university will be valuable as he looks to build on the program's past successes.

The details

After serving in an 'acting' capacity, Jeremy Hunter has been officially named the 16th head coach in the history of the University of Illinois wrestling program. Hunter has been with the program for 25 years, starting as a volunteer coach in 2001 and becoming a full-time assistant in 2009. He has served under the last three Illinois head coaches - Mark Johnson, Jim Heffernan, and Mike Poeta. Poeta was placed on administrative leave by the university in December, and the terms of his departure are still being finalized.

  • Jeremy Hunter arrived at the University of Illinois as a volunteer coach in the fall of 2001.
  • Hunter was promoted to a full-time assistant coach position in 2009.
  • Poeta was placed on administrative leave by the University on December 19, 2025.

The players

Jeremy Hunter

The new permanent head coach of the University of Illinois wrestling program, with 25 years of experience in the program as both a volunteer and full-time assistant coach.

Josh Whitman

The athletic director at the University of Illinois, who praised Hunter's technical expertise, recruiting abilities, and deep appreciation for the program's history and tradition in announcing his promotion to head coach.

Mike Poeta

The previous head coach of the University of Illinois wrestling program, who was placed on administrative leave by the university in December 2025.

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What they’re saying

“For 25 years, Jeremy Hunter has committed himself to Illinois Wrestling. During his time as an assistant coach, Jeremy has played a significant role in many milestone moments for both the team and individual wrestlers. He is an incredible technician and an avid recruiter, and he has first-hand appreciation for the proud history and tradition of this program. That said, he is excited to leave his own stamp on the program and move it to even greater heights.”

— Josh Whitman, Athletic Director, University of Illinois (Chambana Today)

“I am honored to carry on the proud tradition of Illinois Wrestling and am grateful for the opportunity to lead our student-athletes. I've spent my entire coaching career at the University of Illinois; this place means everything to me. I am grateful to Josh Whitman for placing his trust in me to lead our program. And I especially want to thank our current team for their hard work and dedication during some uncertain times these last few months. I admire their steadfast commitment and competitive drive, and I am excited about our opportunities entering this important postseason.”

— Jeremy Hunter, Head Coach, University of Illinois Wrestling (Chambana Today)

What’s next

The University of Illinois will finalize the terms of Mike Poeta's departure in the coming weeks and communicate them at the appropriate time.

The takeaway

The selection of Jeremy Hunter as the new head coach of the University of Illinois wrestling program signals a commitment to continuity and stability within the storied program. Hunter's 25 years of experience and deep ties to the university make him well-positioned to build on the program's past successes and lead it to even greater heights in the future.