SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Athletics Department is excited to announce the hiring of Jennesis Martinez as the new Assistant Women's Wrestling Coach. A four-time collegiate All-American, five-time Scholar All-American, and seasoned mentor, Martinez brings elite competitive experience and a passion for empowering student-athletes both on and off the mat. 

Martinez joins the Sioux Falls Wrestling staff following a standout career at Colorado Mesa University, where she established herself as one of the premier 101/103-pound wrestlers in the country. In 2023-24, she capped a remarkable 22-3 season with a sixth-place finish at the NCWWC National Championships, her fourth career All-America honor. She went a perfect 18-0 leading up to the national tournament—without surrendering a single point—winning titles at both the Region VI and RMAC Championships. 

Throughout her collegiate career, Martinez consistently excelled against top-tier competition. She compiled multiple top finishes at the national level, earned First Team All-RMAC and RMAC All-Academic First Team honors, and was named a NWCA Scholar All-American five times. Her career includes notable wins over nationally ranked NCAA and NAIA opponents, including a high-profile victory over the No. 1 seed at nationals in 2023. 

Off the mat, Martinez has demonstrated a deep commitment to mentoring young athletes. She's served in coaching roles with Del Norte High School, the NM Beast Wrestling Club, and various clinics and camps—emphasizing technique, discipline, academic success, and personal growth. Her coaching philosophy centers on building resilient, well-rounded athletes and promoting diversity, inclusion, and team unity. 

"I'm really excited to welcome Jennesis to Sioux Falls and the USF Women's Wrestling Program," stated Head Coach Griffin Osing. "From the start, Jennesis not only stood out with her athletic accomplishments, but also her professionalism and passion for coaching. Being a part of one of the premier programs in women's wrestling while also being one of the top lightweights in the country, she has seen the work it takes to build a special program. She is a high-level coach, and I can't wait to get to work with her!" 

A native of Albuquerque, N.M., Martinez was a two-time New Mexico state champion at Manzano High School and won a Cadet Folkstyle National Championship. She recently completed her master's in business administration at Colorado Mesa after earning her bachelor's in business administration with honors in 2023. 

USF Women's Wrestling officially welcomes Martinez as preparations begin for the upcoming season.

For all things USF Women's Wrestling, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!