From Wisconsin Rivals to Texas Teammates: The Rise of MSU Cycling’s Dynamic Duo
Midwestern State University (MSU) Cycling is making waves in the South Central Collegiate Cycling Conference and at the heart of their success are sophomores Gabrielle Wrightsman and Emma Kasza-James. Their story is one of fierce competition turned collaborative strength, a journey that began in Wisconsin and found a modern home in Wichita Falls, Texas.
A History of Competition, A Future of Collaboration
Wrightsman and Kasza-James were rivals long before donning the MSU jersey. Now, as the sole two members of the MSU Cycling women’s team in Spring 2026, they’ve found a unique balance – teammates and friends who continue to push each other to excel. This dynamic has already yielded impressive results, including Wrightsman winning the Omnium at College Station and Kasza-James securing the road race victory at the same event.
National Aspirations and Hometown Advantage
Wrightsman’s ambitions extend beyond conference success. With the national championships returning to Madison, Wisconsin, she sees a significant advantage. “Nationals are in Madison, Wisconsin, so it’ll be home territory to me,” she stated. Her experience winning the criterium race at the Kwik Trip Tour of America’s Dairyland while racing for White Space Bikes last June further fuels her confidence.
Beyond Individual Success: The Power of Team Kinship
Despite being a small team, the MSU Cycling program fosters a strong sense of community. Wrightsman emphasizes the value of being surrounded by fellow cyclists. “I just really like being in an area where pretty much everyone around me bikes,” she explained. “At home, I was pretty much the only one in my town.” This sense of belonging extends to teammates from diverse backgrounds, creating a supportive environment for growth.
Attracting International Talent
MSU Cycling’s appeal isn’t limited to domestic riders. Newcomer Erich Kohlberg, a Business Management major from Bolivia, highlights the program’s welcoming atmosphere for international students. “Coach made me sense comfortable and gave me confidence to reach great goals in future races,” Kohlberg shared after winning the Men’s B criterium and road race.
A Winning Formula: Coaching and Execution
MSU Cycling Director Mario Arroyave credits the team’s success to focused execution. “The team came into College Station knowing that the (Texas A&M) Aggies would be in full force…but we were able to stay focused and execute on what we needed to do to perform at a high level.”
The Wrightsman-Kasza-James Connection: A Competitive Edge
The bond between Wrightsman and Kasza-James isn’t just about friendship; it’s a strategic advantage. They’ve learned to anticipate each other’s moves, leveraging their strengths and compensating for weaknesses during races. Kasza-James notes, “She knows a lot about what I’m doing and can predict a lot about what I’m going to do, and I know a lot about what she’s going to do.”
MSU Cycling: A Blend of Academics and Athletics
Wrightsman’s experience at MSU extends beyond the cycling trails. As a geosciences major, she appreciates the campus environment and the opportunities for study. She particularly enjoys the study spaces available throughout the McCoy College of Science, Mathematics & Engineering, including the new area at Bolin.
FAQ
Q: How many riders are on the MSU Cycling women’s team?
A: Currently, there are two riders on the MSU Cycling women’s team: Gabrielle Wrightsman and Emma Kasza-James.
Q: Where are Wrightsman and Kasza-James originally from?
A: Both Wrightsman and Kasza-James are originally from Wisconsin.
Q: What are Wrightsman’s and Kasza-James’s majors?
A: Wrightsman is a geosciences major, and Kohlberg is a Business Management major.
Q: What recent successes has the MSU Cycling team achieved?
A: The team achieved 17 total podium finishes at the South Central Collegiate Cycling Conference road race in College Station, with Wrightsman and Kasza-James leading the charge.
Did you know? Gabrielle Wrightsman won the 2025 Hotter-N Hell Hundred CAT-1 race.
Explore more about the McCoy College of Science, Mathematics & Engineering at MSU Texas.
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