MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State men's wrestling coach Jim Makovsky announced today that he will step down following the 2025-26 season, officially retiring June 30, 2026, bringing a decorated 33-year career at MSU to a close.

Makovsky, who has amassed a 327-149-3 record at Minnesota State, is just the third head coach in the 75-year history of the program. Including four seasons at his alma mater, Valley City State, he holds a career record of 350-169-4. His 350 career wins is eighth all-time in NCAA Division II and among active coaches, he has the second most dual victories in Division II.

"After 33 unforgettable years at Minnesota State University— I have decided that the time is right to retire from my role as head wrestling coach at the end of this season," said Makovsky.
 
"This program has been one of the great honors of my life. I've had the privilege of working alongside dedicated student-athletes, assistant coaches, alumni, administrators, and supporters who believe in something bigger than themselves. Together, we built a culture rooted in hard work, humility, accountability, and pride-Hungry, Humble, Smart. Watching young people grow, struggle, persevere, and ultimately discover who they can become has been the most rewarding part of this journey.
 
"I am deeply grateful to every student-athlete who trusted me with their career, every family who shared their son with our program, every colleague who challenged and supported me, and every fan who showed up — in the stands, online, or from miles away to cheer on Maverick Wrestling. This community is special and I'm grateful for all the support and my wrestlers were honored to support it back. 
 
"Coaching is never a solo act. It's a team effort, and I've been blessed to be surrounded by exceptional people at every step.  I was fortunate to work alongside excellent assistant coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches that genuinely cared about the personal journey of my wrestlers.  I leave knowing the program is strong, resilient, and positioned for continued success.

"Thank you for the opportunity to lead this program, represent this university, and be part of something truly special. I will always be proud to be a Maverick."

During his career, Makovsky has mentored 12 national champions and 97 NCAA Division II All-Americans. He is a three-time conference coach of the year (2007–09) and guided two conference championship teams — the 2007 North Central Conference champions and 2009 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference champions. In 2019, he was named NCAA Division II Region Coach of the Year.

Makovsky's teams have produced 19 top ten national finishes and won three straight NCAA Division II Super Region Three championships from 2007 to 2009. Minnesota State notched national runner-up finishes in 1992-93 and 2007-08.

"Jim Makovsky's legacy at Minnesota State goes far beyond the individual wins and team accomplishments," Minnesota State Director of Athletics Kevin Buisman said. "He coached with a unique blend of tough love and genuine care, always putting the welfare of his student-athletes first — as competitors and as future leaders.

"That commitment built trust, shaped lives and forged relationships that endured long after their time on the mat ended. As an amazing coaching journey ends, we wish Jim, Dawn and their family all the best in this next phase of life."

The Mavericks have placed in the top-five several times at the National Wrestling Coaches Association National Duals including the 2008 Nationals Duals Championship.

Makovsky was inducted into the NCAA Division II Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame in 2013 and received the North Central Conference Legacy Award in 2008. He has served on the National Wrestling Coaches Association board of directors, including a term as president. In 2009, he was selected as the honorary coach for the NCAA Division I All-Star Meet at Ohio State University.

During his time at Minnesota State, the Mavericks have inducted two teams into the school's Athletics Hall of Fame coached by Makovsky along with four individuals. 

Makovsky has also given back to the sport of wrestling by producing coaches, sending several former wrestlers and assistant coaches into the collegiate and high school ranks as head and assistant coaches.

"Coach Jim Makovsky exemplifies what it means to be a Maverick," said Minnesota State University President Dr. Edward Inch. "His leadership over 33 years elevated not only wrestling but also the entire athletics program through his professionalism, mentorship, and competitive spirit. We are grateful for his extraordinary service."

Minnesota State (14-4, 7-2 NSIC) closes its home schedule at 7:00 p.m. Thursday against Southwest Minnesota State. Fans are invited to celebrate Senior Night and honor Makovsky during his final home dual at the Taylor Center.