Last Updated on March 31, 2024 by The HD Post Staff

APPLE VALLEY – Academic excellence is what eight Granite Hills High School wrestling athletes will be recognized for in the coming weeks. 

The National Wrestling Coaches Association in partnership with the US Marine Corps is honoring Salvator Arena, Jayden Autry, Isaiah Hernandez, Jack Hood, Jaiden Howell, Alice Perteet, Emma Seiler, and Thadeus Young with an All-America award for being varsity wrestlers and carrying over a 3.5 GPA.

“The award shows the hard work these kids do to maintain the role of a “student” athlete by keeping high marks and being lifted in athletics,” said Granite Hills head wrestling coach Kevin Clift.

Proud to get an award

Hernandez added that he feels proud to get an award.

“It showed what would happen if I actually tried, I could actually be something if I tried,” said Hernandez about his time on the wrestling team.

Hood, who plans to become a forensic scientist or a Marine after graduating high school, said being on the wrestling team has shown him that with hard work and perseverance, he can do anything.

“I feel honored to receive the award and it shows that you do get recognized when you keep your grades up,” said Hood.

For more information about the National Wrestling Coaches Association All-America honor visit https://nwcaonline.com/sports/2024/1/16/high-school-awards.aspx

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