ITHACA, N.Y. -- Cornell wrestling has announced the addition of Yianni Diakomihalis to its coaching staff, bringing one of the program's most decorated athletes back to Ithaca in a new role.

"I'm very excited to add Yianni to the coaching staff," said head coach Mike Grey. "He obviously has a wealth of knowledge but also a love for Cornell University Wrestling. I'm confident he will hit the group running and do a great job for our student-athletes."

Diakomihalis returns to Cornell after a historic collegiate career that saw him become a four-time NCAA champion at 141 and 149 pounds. A four-time All-American and four-time EIWA champion, he capped his senior season in 2022-23 with a 21-1 record and a 4-2 victory over Ohio State's Sammy Sasso in the NCAA finals. He finished his career on a 21-match win streak and was a Hodge Trophy finalist, while earning Ivy League and EIWA Wrestler of the Year honors in each of his four competitive seasons.

"I grew up as a Cornell fan, went to Cornell and I'm super invested in the guys and the program, so it means a lot to be back and invest in the team again," Diakomihalis said.

During his time on East Hill, Diakomihalis posted an unblemished 28-0 record as a junior in 2021-22 en route to his third national title, highlighted by 15 wins over nationally ranked opponents. As a sophomore, he completed a 29-0 campaign with his second NCAA championship, extending a win streak that dated back to his freshman season. He burst onto the national scene in 2017-18, becoming just the second Cornell freshman to win an NCAA title after finishing 37-1.

Prior to Cornell, Diakomihalis was one of the most accomplished high school wrestlers in New York state history. A four-time state champion at Hilton High School, he compiled a 243-3 career record and set a state record with a 210-match win streak. On the international stage, he earned two Cadet World Championships, joining an elite group of American wrestlers to achieve the feat.

Now transitioning from standout competitor to coach, Diakomihalis brings elite-level experience and a deep connection to the program as Cornell continues to build on its national success.