Pioneers, Ilges and Smith Earn NWCA Scholar All-American Honors

The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) announced the full slate of 2021-2022 Scholar All-America Team and Individual honorees for NCAA Division III with awards going to going to 325 individuals representing 87 institutions.

The Alfred State wrestling team was recognized as a one of the Top 30 Scholar All-America Teams after posting a 3.482 GPA, they are the only SUNY school to be recognized.

Blake Ilges (Canisteo Greenwood) and Justin Smith (Rushville, NY/Marcus Whitman) received individual Scholar All-American honors, which is the highest academic achievement individuals in college wrestling can earn.

"On behalf of the NWCA Board of Directors, It is my honor to recognize these exceptional athletes and teams," NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer said. "Wrestling takes much focus and sacrifice and we are proud to honor these wrestlers for their obvious commitment to their academic pursuits!"

For the full NWCA article, click here.