Empowering Champions, Elevating Women’s Wrestling in North Carolina
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of NC United Gold, an elite program uniting North Carolina’s top female high school wrestlers to drive excellence in freestyle wrestling to achieve regional and national success. As the fastest-growing sport in collegiate athletics, women’s wrestling is transforming the landscape, and NC United Gold is committed to positioning North Carolina as a leader in this dynamic arena.
NC United: Uniting a State. Elevating a Sport.
NC United is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established one year ago with the mission of unifying and elevating wrestling across North Carolina. Our organization operates two elite programs: NC United Blue for boys and now NC United Gold for girls. Through these initiatives, we aim to provide extraordinary opportunities for young wrestlers to develop their skills, compete at national levels, and prepare for collegiate success while representing our state with pride and excellence.
What is NC United Gold?
NC United Gold is more than a training program—it’s a movement to elevate women’s freestyle wrestling in North Carolina. Designed to bridge the gap between high school Folkstyle and collegiate freestyle wrestling, this initiative provides athletes with unparalleled opportunities to develop their skills, compete nationally, and prepare for collegiate success.
Our Program Offers
- Elite Freestyle Training: Train with North Carolina’s top female wrestlers in a competitive yet supportive environment, mastering freestyle techniques under world-class coaches.
- National Competition: Showcase talent at premier tournaments like Southeast Regionals, Fargo Nationals, Super 32, and Women’s National Championships, gaining critical experience and exposure.
- Comprehensive Athlete Development:
- Advanced strength and conditioning tailored for wrestlers
- Nutrition and weight management guidance
- Mindset coaching to build resilience and mental toughness
- College recruiting support to help athletes achieve academic and athletic goals
- Exclusive Opportunities: Access to elite national training camps, including partnerships with top programs and facilities, to prepare for collegiate and international competition.
“NC United Gold is about creating a legacy for women’s wrestling in North Carolina. We’re giving our athletes the tools to compete at the highest levels and the inspiration to lead the next generation.”
— Veronica Carlson
A Hub for All Levels: High School, College, and Beyond
NC United Gold isn’t just for high school athletes—it’s for any woman determined to elevate her wrestling journey. We’re inviting current college athletes and those pursuing international competition to join our training sessions and development environment.
Our philosophy of “iron sharpens iron” holds true at every stage. By bringing together elite wrestlers from across age groups and experience levels, we’re building a statewide hub of excellence where growth is shared, standards are raised, and mentorship thrives. College athletes are not only continuing to sharpen their own skills but also helping shape the next generation of champions.
Continuing the Journey—Even Without a College Program
While women’s wrestling is expanding rapidly, we understand that many universities still don’t offer varsity opportunities. But that shouldn’t mean the journey ends.
NC United Gold creates a space for these athletes to keep training at a high level—surrounded by North Carolina’s top female wrestlers. Whether you’re attending a college without a wrestling program or preparing for the next stage of your competitive career, you’ll have a place to grow, stay sharp, and remain connected to the sport you love.
From Self to State: Representing North Carolina
Our motto, “First, you represent yourself and your family. Then your team and club. Beyond state lines, you represent OUR STATE!” guides our athletes to take pride in their actions on and off the mat. NC United Gold athletes embody excellence, resilience, and unity, representing their families, clubs, and the North Carolina wrestling community. True champions uphold these values by striving for greatness, even when no one is watching. This is the standard we instill in all who wear the NC United Gold singlet.
The Importance of Freestyle Wrestling
In collegiate women’s wrestling, freestyle is the only style competed, unlike the folkstyle wrestling prevalent in North Carolina’s high school programs. Freestyle emphasizes dynamic techniques, scoring from standing positions, and a faster pace, aligning with international standards like the Olympics. Transitioning from folkstyle to freestyle is a challenge, but it’s one NC United Gold is committed to mastering.
“Freestyle wrestling is the future for our athletes, opening doors to collegiate and international success. Our program will bridge the gap, ensuring our wrestlers are ready to dominate on the national stage.”
— Brandon Palmer, Head Coach
With the continued support of colleges like Greensboro College, Montreat College, and the University of Mount Olive (UMO), NC United Gold is building a pipeline for athletes to excel in freestyle and pursue collegiate opportunities.
A Strong Foundation: Last Year’s Practices
In 2024, NC United Gold kicked off with two inaugural freestyle practices led by Veronica Carlson—one at the University of Mount Olive, introducing athletes to core freestyle fundamentals, and another at Greensboro College, where collaboration with college wrestlers highlighted the depth and potential of North Carolina’s female wrestling talent.
“The energy at those practices was electric. Our athletes showed they’re ready to embrace freestyle and compete with the best.” — Veronica Carlson
NC United Gold is a Commitment to Excellence
- Commitment to Freestyle Development: Prioritizing freestyle as the foundation for training, competition, and collegiate preparation.
- Minimum of Two Practices Per Month: Bringing together North Carolina’s top female wrestlers to train in freestyle techniques.
- National Tournament Competition: Forming a team to represent NC United Gold at premier events, gaining exposure and experience.
“We’re building a program that will make North Carolina a powerhouse in women’s wrestling. NC United Gold is about unity, excellence, and giving our athletes the opportunities they deserve.” — Matt Hickey, Co-Founder NC United
Our Vision for the Future
NC United Gold is a movement to unite North Carolina’s best young women wrestlers and set a new standard for excellence. Our athletes will train in a supportive, high-performance environment, compete nationally, and gain visibility for college recruiters. Ultimately, we aim to empower our wrestlers to achieve their goals—whether on the mat, in the classroom, or as coaches/referees and leaders in their communities.
Join Us!
We’re excited to announce our first practice will be held next Sunday at Greensboro College. Invitations are going out this week. If you are interested in participating, please contact us directly.
Join us as NC United Gold transforms women’s wrestling in North Carolina. Together, we’ll build a legacy of excellence, resilience, and unity. For more information, visit NC Wrestling United. Let’s make North Carolina a national leader in women’s freestyle wrestling!
