PHILADELPHIA – Welcome to University City! Head Wrestling Coach Matt Valenti announced the addition of Jake McKiernan as an assistant coach to the program on Monday afternoon.
 
"One of the biggest challenges in building a staff is finding impactful upper weight coaches," said Valenti. "In hiring Jake, we're bringing in an experienced and proven coach who will be a difference-maker. His time at SIUE shows that he brings a lot to the table. Bringing in Jake is an awesome way to round out our staff."
 
McKiernan comes to Philadelphia after most recently serving as the first head coach of the Southern Illinois Regional Training Center. McKiernan started his coaching career at his alma mater, SIUE, as a graduate assistant coach.
 
The Michigan native picked up 48 wins competing at 197 and heavyweight during his time with the Cougars.
 
McKiernan joins Lennox Wolak and Lucas Byrd on Valenti's staff for the 2026-27 season.