CEDAR FALLS — Northern Iowa wrestling coach Doug Schwab announced the hiring of former Panther All-American Cael Happel as the program’s Director of Operations.

A five-year member of the Panther Train, Happel returns to UNI where he will oversee the program’s day-to-day operations, including budgeting, equipment, team travel, assists in NCAA compliance and recruiting.

“I’ve loved UNI since I first stepped foot on campus as a student-athlete,” Happel said. “I couldn’t be more excited to stick around and help give back to a program and a university that shaped me into the man I am today!”

Compiling a career record of 85-32, Happel captured the Big 12 Conference title at 141 pounds this past season, finishing the 2024-25 campaign in fifth place at the NCAA Championships in Philadelphia to earn All-American honors.

A Lisbon native, Happel graduated from UNI with a bachelor’s degree in financial management with a minor in coaching. He currently resides in Cedar Falls with his fiancé, Ella.