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sports23h ago
Penn State Wrestling Commit Jayden James Earns Prestigous Honor
- Jayden James, a Delbarton High School standout, earned the 2026 Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award for his achievements in wrestling, academics, citizenship and community service.
- James went 36-0 last season and won his second state title at the NJSIAA championships in Atlantic City.
- He is the nation’s top-ranked high school wrestler at 165 pounds and the third-ranked recruit in the 2026 class, according to FloWrestling.
- James committed to Penn State in March 2025, three days after the Nittany Lions won their NCAA title.
- James previously committed to Virginia Tech before flipping to Penn State under coach Cael Sanderson.
- The 71 kg freestyle title at the U17 World Championships in Athens 2025 and the 2025 U17 title at the U.S. Open highlight his freestyle success.
- James could join Penn State’s 2026 lineup at either 165 or 174 pounds, depending on Mesenbrink’s weight class.
- Penn State returns eight All-Americans and could be even better in 2027 after winning five consecutive NCAA titles.
- The Dave Schultz Award honors the late Olympic and world champion and recognizes character, leadership and service.
- Mark Wogenrich, editor and publisher of Penn State on SI, reported on the award and James’s achievements.
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