The wrestling community mourned the tragic death of former All-American wrestler and beloved coach Tyler Sigler, who was killed by a fallen tree limb while riding in a cart on May 4, 2025.
His sudden death at 28 left a deep sadness for his family, friends, athletes, and the wrestling community.
As a standout athlete at Liberty University, he competed in the 141-pound weight class and earned a reputation as a fierce competitor.
His skill and determination led him to become a two-time nationally ranked wrestler, peaking at #2 in the nation.
Tyler was a key member of Liberty’s national championship wrestling team, contributing to their success with his grit and talent.
Throughout his college career, Tyler faced top-tier opponents in high-profile matches.
Notable moments include his appearance in the finals against Will Hale of Emmanuel College and a standout performance in the 2017 NCWA National Duals against Springfield Tech’s Chris Vega.
These matches showcased his ability to compete at the highest level and secured his legacy as one of Liberty’s finest wrestlers.
After Graduating, Tyler Transitioned From Competitor To Coach, Maintaining His Passion And Intensity
He served as an assistant wrestling coach at Washington High School in West Virginia, where he inspired young athletes to chase their dreams.
Beyond high school, Tyler played a central role in elite training programs across the region, including running Rattlers wrestling practices and clinics.
Tyler’s connection with his athletes was extraordinary.
He coached with love and dedication, encouraging their skills, confidence, and character.
His ability to connect with children was evident, as they looked up to him as a mentor and hero.
As a young female wrestler, one of his athletes shared,
“the impact siggy had on my life is insane, i have no idea who i would be without him. from getting pushed everyday in practice, to getting serious about my mental health, to getting involved in my family and being there for me when things got hard, every aspect of my life has been touched. as the only girl in the room a lot of the time he never let me skip any work and took me to extra practices because he believed in me way before i believed in myself. i hope i make him proud.
Via Instagram
praying for his family and those that were closest.”
Born to Elizabeth Brown Sigler and Ronnie Sigler, Tyler grew up in Locust Hill alongside his sister.
Wrestling was his first love, but his passions extended far beyond the mat.
Tyler found joy in hunting, skiing, fishing, equine dentistry, and riding horses.
Above all, he cherished spending time with his family and friends, who described him as a loyal and dependable presence.
Tyler’s lively personality and adventurous spirit left a trail of memories.
Friends recalled wild stories from their time together, from car rides to wrestling tournaments to dodging paintballs in the yard.
A close friend, Brendon Colbert, wrote,
“I’ll never forget the car rides to and from practices/tournaments every week year round! I’ll never forget us acting like we were jockeys all the time running around Charlestown! Countless memories like us running across the yard dodging paintballs haha! We did it all together! This wrestling shit isn’t the same without you. One hell of a coach and only wanted the best for the kids! Anytime I step foot on a wrestling mat you will be in my thoughts! I love you bro🧡”
Via Facebook
The News Of Tyler Sigler’s Death Shocked The Wrestling Community And Many Others
Tributes poured in from friends, athletes, and mentors, each one highlighting the profound impact he had on their lives.
Chantz Griffith, who had known Tyler since childhood, shared a heartfelt message:
“I’ve known Siggy since he was a kid. Watched him grow as a phenomal wrestler and eventually into an absolute perfect coach for so many kids. The wrestling world lost a great man yesterday. I lost a great friend yesterday. I love you Sig
Via Facebook
Ron Bradbury, who worked closely with Tyler to build elite wrestling programs, spoke of his passion:
” Tyler coached every kid with passion, with a love for the sport true coaches have. We talked or texted daily about schedules, clinics camps techniques.
Via Facebook
Tyler’s special connection with the kids of the region, not just our Rattlers, but from the Tri-State area was unique and we could see it taking hold in the kids.
Love you Tyler.”
Another friend, Josh Showtime, reflected on their shared memories:
“I’ll never forget all our crazy stories from Lynchburg to West Virginia. Doesn’t seem fair, but God called you home.”
Tyler’s uncle, Rick Brown, expressed the family’s grief:
Michael Bryant added,
Tyler Sigler was a strong and kind person who cared deeply about others.
He excelled as a wrestler, inspired many as a coach, and made a lasting impact as a friend.
His sudden passing has saddened the wrestling community, but his positive influence will live on in the lives he changed.
Tyler’s spirit will continue to inspire wrestlers, coaches, and communities to strive for excellence and live passionately.
Your memory will live on in every match, every practice, and even.
