The Big 12 Conference has announced its plans to honor wrestling with special awards in the 2025-26 academic year. This decision comes as a significant boost for the wrestling community, recognizing the sport's growing popularity and its contributions to the athletic programs. Yonger Bastida, a prominent figure in the wrestling world, has been instrumental in advocating for the sport's inclusion in such prestigious awards. The move by the Big 12 Conference is seen as a strategic decision to enhance the visibility and support for wrestling, potentially leading to increased participation and funding. This initiative not only highlights the importance of wrestling in college athletics but also underscores the broader efforts to diversify and strengthen the sports landscape. The Big 12 Conference's decision is likely to be met with both support and criticism, as it reflects a broader debate about the value and recognition of various sports within collegiate programs.