Bio

Drew Sams was named Head Men's Wrestling Coach at Graceland University on May 20, 2025, by Director of Athletics Brady McKillip after previously serving as both a student-athlete and assistant coach for the Yellowjackets.

Sams returned to Graceland following three seasons as the head men's wrestling coach at William Penn University, where he coached five NAIA National Qualifiers and three NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

Prior to William Penn, Sams served as Graceland's Head Assistant Coach from 2021-24 and helped lead the Yellowjackets to sustained success on the mat and in the classroom. During his tenure, Graceland produced 10 NAIA National Qualifiers and three NAIA All-Americans. In 2024, the Yellowjackets finished runner-up at the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championships, with all 12 wrestlers placing in the top six of their respective weight classes.

The program also excelled academically during Sams' time on staff, finishing third nationally in the NWCA Scholar All-American Team standings while producing 14 NAIA Scholar-Athletes and 16 NWCA Scholar All-Americans. Graceland was also recognized with the 2023-24 Heart Musco Sportsmanship Award.

As a student-athlete, Sams established himself as one of the most accomplished wrestlers in Graceland history. He was a four-time NAIA National Qualifier, a 2021 NAIA All-American at 184 pounds, and a three-time team captain. Sams finished his career with 94 victories and helped lead the Yellowjackets to a ninth-place finish at the 2021 NAIA National Championships.

Prior to Graceland, Sams attended Oskaloosa High School, where he was an Iowa State Medalist.

A native of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Sams earned a Bachelor of Arts in Allied Health from Graceland University in 2021 and a Master's degree in Nutrition and Human Performance in 2023.

Sams and his wife, Rachel, have a son, Meyer.