Life University Mens Wrestling Program

Program History

Founded in 2012, the Life University Mens Wrestling team is the only National Championship program in Georgia.

With teams actively competing in the NAIA and the NCWA, we have a rich history of producing champions on and off the mat.

60x NAIA All Americans

12x NAIA National Champions

2021 NAIA National Champions

2025 NCWA National Duals Champions

Some of our success

2024 NAIA National Duals Champions

4x NAIA National Duals Runner Up

5x NAIA Nationals Runner Up

Meet Coach Omi Acosta

An Award Winning Coaching Staff

Jake Laden

Associate Head Coach

• USA Greco All American

• University Nationals All American

• NAIA All American

• NJCAA All American

• High School All American

• Montana State Champion

Dalton Bailey

Assistant Coach

• NAIA Nationals Finalist

• 4x NAIA National Qualifier

• 2021 NAIA Team National Champions

• 2023 NAIA National Duals Champions

Erique Early

Assistant Coach

• NAIA National Champion

• 2x NAIA National Finalist

• 2x NAIA All American

• 2x Academic All American

• Indiana Tech Record Holder for Takedowns (394)

Tre Horton

Director of Wrestling Operations

• 2021 Gwinnett County Assistant Coach of the Year

• GA Collegiate State Placer - 3rd

• GA Greco State Champion

• GA Freestyle State Runner Up

• GA HS State Finalist

• GA HS State Placer - 3rd

Program Philosophy

The palm tree stands as the perfect symbol for Life U Wrestling, representing our core values of care, commit, compete, consistency, and compassion. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I witnessed palm trees bend without breaking during hurricanes, their deep roots keeping them strong. Like the palm, we must care for our foundation, our team, and our support system so we remain grounded. We commit to our goals with unwavering focus, and we compete with flexibility, adapting to challenges while staying true to who we are. Through every storm, we maintain consistency, always pushing forward. And finally, just as the palm tree endures with grace, we show compassion to ourselves, our teammates, and our opponents in understanding that strength comes from more than just power. This is how we succeed, on and off the mat. This is the Lucha Way.

- Omi Acosta, Head Wrestling Coach @ Life University

What does it mean to Lucha?

Lucha is a LIFE-style

See yourself living Life here!

Life University is located in Marietta, Georgia right outside of Atlanta. The university features a beautiful campus featuring over 100+ acres of forests, trails, and state of the art facilities.

Life University offers Masters and Undergraduate degrees in:

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Biology

• Biopsychology

• Business Administration

• Environment and Sustainability

• Exercise Science

• Health and Wellness

• Health Coaching

• Interdisciplinary Studies

• Nutrition

• Pre-DC

• Psychology

• and more!

Our Top 7 Things to do:

1. Atlanta Braves (7-8 minutes from campus):

* Catch a game at SunTrust Park or Truist Park

* Take a tour of the stadium and facilities

2. Six Flags Over Georgia (20-30 minutes from campus):

* Enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions

* Special events and concerts throughout the year

3. Georgia Aquarium (25-35 minutes from campus):

* Witness the majesty of marine life from around the world

* Interactive exhibits and animal encounters

4. World of Coca-Cola (25-35 minutes from campus):

* Learn about the history and cultural significance of the iconic brand

* Sample flavors from around the globe

5. Stone Mountain Park (30-40 minutes from campus):

* Explore a 1,686-acre park with hiking trails, scenic views, and historic sites

* Ride the Summit Skyride for panoramic views

6. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park (30-40 minutes from campus):

* Visit this Civil War-era site to learn about its history and significance

* Hike through the woods or explore the museum and visitor center

7. The Varsity (20-30 minutes from campus):

* Experience a classic Atlanta institution serving up burgers, hot dogs, and more

Join the Lucha family