Exclusive: Penn State assistant Nick Lee not listed in Senior World Team Trials field; Three NLWC members are top pre-seeds
In a surprising development ahead of the 2025 Senior World Team Trials, Penn State wrestling assistant coach and former NCAA champion Nick Lee has not been listed among the competitors. While Lee’s absence from the entry field has caught the attention of fans and wrestling insiders alike, the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club (NLWC) will still be well-represented, with three of its top wrestlers earning No. 1 pre-seeds in their respective weight classes.
Lee, who has been a prominent figure on the U.S. freestyle circuit in recent years, was widely expected to contend for a spot on the national team once again. As a multiple-time NCAA champion and a strong performer at previous World Team Trials and international tournaments, his experience and elite skill level made him a presumed favorite in the 65 kg field. However, his name was notably missing when the final entries were released this week.
No official reason has been given for Lee’s absence, and Penn State has not issued a statement regarding his status. Whether due to injury, personal decision, or a strategic choice to focus on coaching duties within the Penn State program, Lee’s decision has created an unexpected opening in what is typically one of the tournament’s most competitive brackets.
Despite that notable omission, the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club continues to shine. Three NLWC wrestlers have secured the No. 1 pre-seed in their weight classes, further demonstrating the club’s deep talent pool and ongoing influence in the upper echelon of USA Wrestling.
Among the top pre-seeds is Olympic gold medalist and world champion David Taylor, who continues to be a dominant force at 86 kg. Taylor, who also serves as a mentor within the club, has been training at a high level and is favored to secure another spot on Team USA.
Joining him is Zain Retherford at 70 kg, another Penn State alum and seasoned international competitor who has repeatedly proven himself on the world stage. Known for his relentless pace and technical precision, Retherford is aiming to return to World Championship contention after strong showings in the past year.
The third top seed from NLWC is young standout Aaron Brooks, fresh off another NCAA title for Penn State and already turning heads in the freestyle scene. Brooks, entering the trials at 86 kg alongside Taylor, presents an intriguing storyline should both wrestlers continue to ascend through the bracket.
The Senior World Team Trials are set to be one of the most competitive events of the year, with the nation’s top wrestlers battling for spots on the U.S. roster heading to the 2025 World Championships. While Nick Lee’s absence leaves questions unanswered, the continued excellence of the NLWC ensures that Penn State’s presence will still be felt on the national stage.
