3/13/25
 
SCRANTON, Pa. –  Two Lackawanna College wrestlers have been recognized for their outstanding academic performances by the National Wrestling Coaches Association this week, as the NWCA announced its 2025 NJCAA Scholar All-Americans.
 
First-year wrestlers John Almonte (Scranton, PA) and Adan Salazar (Scranton, PA) were the two Falcons amongst the 174 honorees from 40 different schools.
 
"They (Almonte and Salazar) are two extremely hard-working young men," said John Fox, head coach for Lackawanna wrestling. "They are consistent in the classroom and on the mat. They are the epitome of a student-athlete. I am extremely proud of them."
 
According to the NWCA's release: "These outstanding student-athletes have demonstrated excellence both on the mat and in the classroom."
 
Honorees had to meet one of the following criteria to qualify as a Scholar All-American:

• National Placer with a 3.0 GPA or higher
• National Qualifier with a 3.25 GPA or higher
• Competed in 15 or more matches with a 3.5 GPA or higher

 
Almonte, whose first wrestling match, ever, happened at the ESU Open back in November, is a Cyber Security major at Lackawanna College. Salazar, who was a national qualifier for the Falcons this past year at 197 lbs., is studying Health Science at Lackawanna College.
 
"The NWCA is proud to honor these outstanding individuals who demonstrate excellence on the mat and in the classroom as well," said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer.
 
You can read the full list of honorees and the release from the NWCA HERE.