University of Northern Iowa Athletics
Cael Happel joins UNI wrestling staff as Director of Operations
7/21/2025 2:26:00 PM | Wrestling
Three-time NCAA qualifier and 2025 All-American joins Doug Schwab’s staff following stellar Panther career.
CEDAR FALLS, Iowa --- UNI head wrestling coach Doug Schwab on Monday announced the hiring of 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, NCAA compliance and recruiting.
"I've loved UNI since I first stepped foot on campus as a student-athlete," Happel explained. "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 with 45 bonus-point victories, Happel captured the Big 12 title at 141 pounds this past season, finishing the 2024-25 season in fifth place at the NCAA Championships in Philadelphia to earn All-American honors.
A Lisbon, Iowa native, Happel graduated from UNI with a bachelor's degree in accounting. He currently resides in Cedar Falls with his fiancé, Ella.
UNI wrestling action can be followed all season long on social media on Facebook (University of Northern Iowa Wrestling), X (@UNI_wrestling) and on Instagram (@uni_panther_wrestling). Check out the latest Panther news and information online at UNIpanthers.com.
