PEMBROKE, N.C. – Head Wrestling Coach Daniel Ownbey has been inducted into the University of North Carolina at Pembroke Athletics Hall of Fame, the school announced over the weekend. The prestigious honor highlights Ownbey's outstanding collegiate career and lasting impact on the UNCP Wrestling program.

"I want to thank UNC Pembroke Athletics and the Hall of Fame committee for this incredible opportunity to join some of the greatest athletes who competed for UNC Pembroke", said Ownbey. "I also want to thank Othello Johnson for giving me the opportunity to continue my career for the Braves, as well as Chris Notte, for being the coach I needed to push me to my limits to reach my goals. UNCP will always hold a very special place in my heart, and I will always be proud to have worn the Black and Gold. I look forward to seeing my own athletes have this opportunity in years to come at Montevallo."

The Asheville, North Carolina native was a four-time All-American from 2011-15, compiling an 133-18 record on the mat. Ownbey further cemented his legacy with a pair of NCAA Division II national titles, the first coming in the 2013-14 season. He capped off a stellar career with his second championship in the 2014-15 campaign, becoming the school's first multi-time national champion.

Ownbey added to his list of accolades following the 2014-15 season, being named the NCAA Super Region II Wrestler of the Year. His name is etched throughout the UNCP record books as he is a member of the illustrious 100-Wins Club and ranks third in all-time wins in program history.

Ownbey's success on the mat has carried over into his coaching career. During the Falcons' inaugural season in 2023-24, Gabe Hixenbaugh, under Ownbey's guidance, secured the school's first national championship in any sport in the NCAA Division II era.

Ownbey will be honored alongside five other members of the Class of 2025 at the UNCP Hall of Fame Ceremony on October 10.