New England Pride Scholarships
In 2026, a total of $6,500 in New England Pride Scholarships were awarded to thirteen wrestlers. This year our goal is to award eighteen scholarships to outstanding individuals from all 6 of the New England states.
The New England Pride
The New England Pride Scholarships were established in 2017 in order to to recognize graduating high school seniors who once competed in the Youth New Englands and are moving on to collegiate wrestling. The NE Pride Scholarships are intended to show pride and support for the collegiate wrestling aspirations of the scholarship recipients.
High school seniors who intend to wrestle in college, particularly those who formerly competed in the Youth New Englands, are encouraged to apply for a scholarship award. In order to be considered for a NE Pride Scholarship, you must complete the scholarship by clicking this button:
*Applications must be submitted by February 19, 2027
How you can contribute:
Donate To NE Pride Scholarships: Your tax-deductible contribution will support New England Pride Scholarship recipients who are chasing their dreams at the collegiate level.
Sponsor a Page in the Program Book: you can sponsor a page in the YNEW program book. Contact [email protected] to support the NE Pride Scholarships and connect your organization with our customers.
2026 New England Pride Scholarships
LILY RUNEZ (Choate Rosemary Hall); JACKSON HESLIN (Greens Farms Academy); JULIAN RIOS (Phillips Andover);
SCOTT MOREAU (Belmont Hill School); SARAH HENCKEL (Blair Academy); JACK DRAGOUMANOS (Belmont Hill School);
RYAN MEIER (Blair Academy); SADIE NADEAU (Spaulding HS); BENJAMIN BYRNE (Nashua South HS);
ZACHERY LAVALLEY (Portsmouth HS); HANNAH DYCKMAN (Bristol County HS); JAMES TILDSLEY (Shawsheen Tech HS);
DEREK MARCOLINI (Milford HS);
Lily Runez, Choate Rosemary Hall
What Lily says about wrestling…
“Wrestling has been a defining part of my life for
as long as I can remember. Wrestling will be a part
of me forever. It hasn’t just built my fitness or my
work ethic; it has changed the way I think. Every
challenge in my life, I tackle through the lens of
wrestling. As wrestling has become a larger part
of my life, it revealed to me who I was all along.
‘I am a wrestler’, I thought, ‘I don’t need to take
the easy route. I don’t give up when winning
seems impossible.’ I am a wrestler, that’s just
what wrestlers do.”
What others say about Lily…
“I’ve had the privilege of watching Lily grow into
not only a nationally ranked wrestler but also a true
leader and an incredible teammate. She’s the kind of
person who sets the tone for everyone around her.
Lily shows up early, works hard every single day,
and brings out the best in the people around her.
She has this rare mix of confidence,
kindness, and drive that draws people in.
Lily is a program-changer.”
Jackson Heslin, Green Farms Academy
What Jackson says about wrestling…
“Wrestling’s greatest impact on my life has come
from the lessons learned through adversity. There
were times when I played the victim, feeling sorry
for circumstances outside my control. Wrestling
forced me to look inward. It taught me that what
you put in is what you get out. It taught me to
work when nobody is watching. It taught me that
setbacks are not punishments, but opportunities. It
taught me resilience, responsibility, and self-belief.
Wrestling has changed my life.”
What others say about Jackson…
”Jackson is a hard-working leader and the
captain of his wrestling team. His determination
has allowed him to be very successful during his
wrestling career and even more successful in life.
Jackson has a genuine heart and is willing to
do whatever it takes for his team to succeed.
He possesses a great capacity for growth; his
motivation and determination will allow him to
meet any challenge in his way.”
Julian Rios, Phillips Andover
What Julian says about wrestling…
“Wrestling symbolizes something bigger than just
a sport; it has become a way of life. This way of life
has taught me so much, and I have applied what
I have learned to varying aspects of my life. This
sport has gifted me with countless opportunities
that I would never have even fathomed when I was
younger. I am grateful to everyone who has ever
helped me to achieve my goals, no matter how small
or big, because if it were not for them, life could be
very different.”
What others say about Julian…
“While Julian’s record on the mat stands
on its own, what stands out even more to his
coaches and teammates is the time he is willing to
take during and after practice to impart his wisdom
to his teammates. While he is undoubtedly the best
wrestler in our room, he is willing to drill with any
and all wrestlers. With all the impact he has made
on his teammates, it was no surprise when Julian
was elected as a captain his junior year.”
Scott Moreau, Belmont Hill School
What Scott says about wrestling…
“My wrestling journey started at the young age of four. When I look back, I think about all the great things the sport of wrestling has done for me and the opportunities it has given and will continue to give to me. The sport of wrestling has also brought great adversity into my life. I can easily say that the unfortunate circumstances I have faced only made me stronger. This is simply thanks to the sport of wrestling; without the lessons and hardships it has thrown at me, I truly believe I wouldn’t be the same person that I am today.”
What others say about Scott…
“Scotty is exactly the type of senior this scholarship
is meant to recognize, an outstanding competitor
with a remarkable journey who is moving on to
collegiate wrestling. Scotty is extremely coachable,
he works hard in the room, and he sets a high
standard for himself and the people around him.
What separates Scotty most is his character; he is a
positive influence on team culture, he brings people
together, and he has a team-first mindset.”
Sarah Henckel, Blair Academy
What Sarah says about wrestling…
“Wrestling has shaped nearly every part of who I
am, not just as an athlete, but as a person. Wrestling
was uncomfortable and humbling from the start.
Progress was slow, and I often found myself
struggling to keep up, but I kept showing up. In that
persistence, I began to discover something deeper
than competition—a sense of purpose.
What started as uncertainty gradually became
commitment, and that commitment grew into a
passion that continues to shape who I am today.
Wrestling has taught me discipline, resilience,
and how to respond when adversity feels
overwhelming.”
What others say about Sarah…
“Sarah came here as a highly touted middle schooler with offers from other schools with more established women’s programs.
While her accolades speak for themselves, what Sarah has done is to leave behind a legacy for the women’s program that tells far more about who she is as a person.
Sarah has set an example for young women and men throughout this country of how a student-athlete should conduct themselves.”
Jack Dragoumanos, Belmont Hill School
What Jack says about wrestling…
“Wrestling has been the foundation of my life,
shaping who I am as a person. The lessons that
I have learned through wrestling have taught
me how to persevere, work hard, and build
character.
I learned that the coaches I have had in my
corner are the types of people I want and need
in my life. I will be forever grateful to the
programs and coaches who were there for me
and helped me to be resilient during difficult
times. I am passionate about wrestling; it will
always be part of my life and who I am.”
What others say about Jack…
“Jack arrived here four years ago on a mission,
and that mission was to improve as a student so
that he could pursue his great passion, which is to
wrestle at the collegiate level.
Jack is foremost a great teammate, and it was no
surprise when he was elected captain at the end of
last season. Determination and ‘coachability’ are
two of his strong suits. Jack may be a relentless
competitor on the mat, but he is also
a naturally kind young man.”
Ryan Meier, Blair Academy
What Ryan says about wrestling…
“For the past fifteen years, wrestling has been the
foundation of my life. Looking back to my early
childhood, I never thought that I would be sitting here now with the amount of gratification towards this awesome sport. Through the sport, the hard work it demands, and the relationships I’ve built along the way, I was fortunate to attend one of the most prestigious high schools for wrestling,
Wrestling has shaped who I am. It has taught me about hard work and discipline. It has challenged me in ways both physically and mentally that bring you to the edge. It has taught me the lessons of “No Quit”, how to deal with adversity and being goal oriented. What I have learned through wrestling will continue to guide me throughout my life.”
What others say about Ryan…
“I have had the unique opportunity to observe Ryan’s growth from multiple vantage points: as an elite athlete, a rigorous student, and a compassionate leader. Ryan is a “people person” in the truest sense; he thrives on connection and has become a cornerstone of our program. He cares deeply for his teammates, and his presence in the room elevates everyone around him.
Ryan is the kind of student-athlete who makes a program better simply by being a part of it. He will bring to the college level a rare blend of selflessness, resilience, and intellectual curiosity.”
Sadie Nadeau, Spaulding HS
What Sadie says about wrestling…
“When I started wrestling at eight-years-old, I
had no clue that it would change the trajectory
of my life in the best way possible. I fell in love
with wrestling by the time I was about ten,
which is when I started improving in the sport.
Through wrestling, I’ve become a stronger,
more talented person all around. I’ve watched
the sport grow from a few girls to tens of
thousands, and I am proud to be a part of this
community.”
What others say about Sadie…
“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching Sadie for the
past seven years. She has been a true joy on the
team, demonstrating qualities of dependability,
leadership, and a strong work ethic. Sadie
displays a level of maturity above the rest of
her peers. Her teammates look to her as a role
model and mentor. She takes pride in her work
and truly gives all of her responsibilities her
best effort. Sadie’s success is a reflection of her
work ethic, drive, and respect for others.”
Benjamin Byrne, Nashua South HS
What Benjamin says about wrestling…
“Wrestling has taught me self-discipline and
resilience that has transferred to my academics.
I wake up early, attend school, train for wrestling
for hours, work out, and still find time to study
and complete homework.
My journey has taught me that obstacles can
become strengths when approached with
resilience… success isn’t about avoiding
challenges—it’s about embracing them. My
experiences have shaped me into someone who
refuses to give up, no matter how tough the
challenge.”
What others say about Benjamin…
“Ben is not only a state champion wrestler,
but also a true leader and role model both
on and off the mat. He consistently leads by
example, showing up early, working hard, and
encouraging others to reach their full potential.
Whether facing challenges in training or
competition, Ben approaches every situation
with determination, respect, and an unwavering
commitment to improvement.”
Zachery Lavalley, Portsmouth HS
What Zachery says about wrestling…
“Through wrestling, I have learned so much.
I learned how to work hard and to never let
failure stop me from becoming something great.
Wrestling for me was never just about me; it was
about the teammates and coaches who told me
that they were proud of me.
I realize there is so much to this sport than
winning and losing, it’s about the grind that gets
you to that win, it’s about the losses that you look
back on and learn from.”
”What others say about Zachery…
“I have had the pleasure of coaching Zack
over his high school career. Some of the things
that stand out in my mind about Zack are his
leadership, his determination, and his effort.
Zack has fallen in love with wrestling,
not just the winning but the whole sport.
He has been one of the best captains I have
had over the years. Zach is the embodiment
of the quote ‘earn it’.
Hannah Dyckman, Bristol County HS
What Hannah says about wrestling…
“I first started wrestling as a freshman in high
school. I decided to reach out of my comfort zone
and try something new, wrestling. I was nervous.
At first, I wasn’t the most successful wrestler, but
my coaches and I knew I had the potential to be
great.
I began to realize that wrestling was my life and my
future; I knew that I had to wrestle in college.
I worked extremely hard and kept close focus on
the sport during every practice. Wrestling opened
a whole new world of possibilities, experiences,
and friendships I never could have imagined.”
What others say about Hannah…
“Hannah has distinguished herself not only
through her athletic accomplishments, but
through her strength of character, perseverance,
and unwavering positive attitude. She has never
allowed hardship to define or limit her.
Instead, she has met each challenge with
maturity, resilience, and grace well beyond her
years. Hannah has maintained a positive attitude
that is truly inspiring. She shows up every day
with determination, kindness, and optimism.”
James Tildsley, Shawsheen Tech HS
What James says about wrestling…
“Walking off the mat, I observed the hollow faces of
my family. That day was the hardest of my life, the
confidence I always had was suddenly gone. But
then one of the greatest men in my life, my Papa,
simply asked, “who is sick…who has died in our
family, James?”
These blunt yet impactful questions helped me gain
a valuable perspective on my setback, and I finally
began to heal. In the end, I learned a valuable lesson
through this most challenging moment.”
What others say about James…
“James is one of the most accomplished student
athletes to ever walk the halls of Shawsheen.
In James, you have a young man who is a quick
learner, eager to perfect every skill he acquires,
someone who takes pride in all that he does.
These are attributes that James carries with him
as a matter of course in his everyday life.”
Derek Marcolini, Milford HS
What Derek says about wrestling…
“Wrestling is not something I do when I feel like it.
It is the center of my life, my day-in, day-out routine.
This sport has shown me that no matter who you are
or where you are from, success comes through hard
work and consistency, both physically and mentally.
Wrestling has instilled an unwavering confidence in
me and my abilities.
The impact wrestling has had on my life is huge,
teaching me discipline, mental toughness, and grit,
and to persevere through hardship, obstacles, and
setbacks to reach my goals.”
What others say about Derek…
“I have watched Derek grow into an exceptional
student, athlete, and leader whose dedication,
integrity, and character are second to none.
Derek is one of the hardest-working and most
dedicated student-athletes I have ever had the
privilege to coach and teach.
His leadership, humility, and determination
will no doubt carry him to continued success
in college and beyond. It has been an honor to
watch Derek grow into the outstanding young
man that he is today.”
Past NE Pride Scholarship Recipients
2025: Corbin Bennett (Monty Tech HS); Michael Boulanger (Milford HS); Isabelle Brandt (Souhegan HS); Avery Carl (Middlebury HS); Liz Donovan (Pelham HS); Charlie Dunn (Newtown HS); Calli Gilchrist (Choate Rosemary Hall); William Henckel (Blair Academy); Brady Kaupp (Greens Farms Academy); Seth McGrew (Bishop Hendricken); Jaeckez Mendez (East Hartford HS); Dani Nugent (Phillips Andover); Talon Oljey (Timberlane HS); Andrew Pimental (Belmont Hill School); Dominick Spadaro (Fairfield Warde HS); Sid Tildsley (Shawsheen Tech HS); Cale Wood (Haverhill HS); Zak Zindle (The Hill School)
2024: Haden Bottiglieri (Belmont Hill MA); Dyllan Davis (Wells ME); Ashley Dehney (Central Catholic MA); Peyton Ellis (Coventry RI); Daisey Hawkins (Scituate RI); Madeline Li (Andover MA); Matthew Lopes (Blair/Danbury CT); Teghan McConnell (Bedford NH); Bailee Militello (Gloucester MA); Brent Nicolosi (Haverhill MA); Victor Petkov (Ridgefield CT); Amara Santulli (Amity CT); Fisher Stites (Newtown CT); and Nate Taylor (Greens Farms CT)
2023: Jack Callahan (Tewksbury MA); Josh Cordio (Wyoming Seminary/Lancaster MA); Tayla Tildsley (Phillips Andover MA); Shaymus MacIntosh (Northfield Mount Hermon MA); Ryan Donovan (Milford MA); Rawson Iwanicki (St. John’s Prep MA); Tyler Knox (St. John’s Prep MA); Derek Cote (Noble ME); Nehemias Pettway (Fairfield Warde CT); and Joe Tully (Carver MA)
2022: Peter Kane (Greens Farms CT); Kelvin Griffin (Hill School PA); Aiden Hanning (Northfield Mt Hermon MA); Jimmy Harrington (Belmont Hill MA); Lucien Perla (Nashoba MA); Conor Maslanek (Pelham NH)
2021: Sophia Matthews (Woburn MA); Anson Dewar (Merrimack NH); Zachary Rioux (Bishop Guertin NH); Nick Pallaria (Timberlane NH); Conor Maslanek (Pelham NH); Joshua Cote (Lebanon ME)
2020: Marisol Nugent (Phillips Academy MA); Joziah Frye (Coventry RI); Antonios Sevastos (Mansfield MA); Sam Wilkins (Mount Anthony VT); Jake Nicolosi (Haverhill MA); Dominic Bonanno (Chariho RI); Harrison Shapiro (Belmont Hill MA); Matt Ryan (Trumbull CT); Hunter Adrian (Melrose MA)
2019: Ryan Garlitz (St. John’s Prep MA); Luca Pontone (Belmont Hill MA); Jack Darling (Masconomet MA); Colin Vallis (Belmont Hill MA); Joe Valentino (No. Andover MA);
2017-2018: Lucas Cordio (Nashoba MA); Drew Chase (Londonderry NH)