Simpson College head women’s wrestling coach Jeff McGinness has announced the promotion of Emma Cochran to associate head coach, recognizing her vital contributions to the program’s rapid rise on the national stage.

Since joining the Storm staff in June 2023, Cochran has been instrumental in transforming Simpson women’s wrestling into one of the most competitive programs in the country. With Cochran on staff, the Storm have posted a 20-7 dual record, climbed as high as No. 20 in the NWCA national rankings, and most recently secured a third place finish at the 26-team Division III Invite.

“This promotion is a testament to what Coach Cochran means to the continued development of our program into a national contender,” said McGinness. “The intangibles she has brought to our staff regarding team chemistry, technical and mental development, and overall intensity continue to be a major reason for our wrestlers’ rapid gains in a very short time.”

A former NAIA All-American, Cochran has helped drive the program’s growth from just nine wrestlers in 2022-23 to more than 30 in 2024-25. The Storm finished runner-up at the inaugural American Rivers Conference Championship last month and are poised to send multiple wrestlers to the NCWWC Championships for the first time in program history.

“I am incredibly honored to continue my journey at Simpson College, a place that truly feels like home.” said Cochran. “My passion for women’s wrestling runs deep, and I am committed to empowering my athletes not only to be champions on the mat but to grow into the best versions of themselves. Every day is an opportunity to inspire, teach, and support these incredible young women, and I’m excited for the future we will build together.”

In her expanded role, Cochran will continue to shape the program alongside McGinness, further strengthening Simpson’s position as a national force in women’s wrestling.