New England Pride Scholarship

In March, the New England Pride Scholarships will be awarded to several deserving high school seniors who will be graduating from high school and moving on to collegiate wrestling.

The New England Pride Scholarships were established in 2017 to recognize outstanding individuals who have competed in New England as youth/high school wrestlers. 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, especially 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 Award, you must complete the scholarship application by clicking this button:

*Applications must be submitted by February 20, 2026

Scholarship recipients will be recognized during a brief awards ceremony on Sunday March 15th at the 2026 Youth New Englands in Fitchburg MA. Recipients will have the opportunity to create a keepsake tribute page that will be printed in the YNEW program book. Their wrestling profiles will also be featured on this page, scroll down to read about past NE Pride Scholarship recipients
 
The NE Pride Scholarships are sponsored by Youth New England Wrestling (YNEW) and many generous supporters who have contributed over the years. Longtime sponsors include the Belmont Hill School, Blair Academy, Noble & Greenough School, Doughboy Wrestling Club, Riptide Wrestling Club, and Competitive Edge.  
 
Since 2017, more than 50 recipients have been awarded over $35,000 in scholarships. Help us spread the word about the NE Pride Scholarships so that we can recognize a deserving wrestler from your program or your area. Our goal is to present annual scholarship awards to wrestlers from all six New England states. Note: recipients are no longer required to secure a co-sponsor for their tribute page.
 
Scroll down below to read some inspiring words from recent New England Pride Scholarship recipients and their supporters that remind us why we do this. If you would like to contribute to the New England Pride Scholarships, there are several ways to do so

How you can contribute:

Donate To NE Pride Scholarships: Your tax-deductible contribution will help us recognize and support the outstanding individuals who receive a New England Pride Scholarship. Join us in supporting these New England wrestlers as they chase their dreams at the collegiate level.

Buy a YNEW Program Book: Purchase a program book at the YNEW tournament, this is where you’ll find the New England Pride tribute pages and wrestling profiles, along with the YNEW All-Timers List, the tournament roster, and past champions.
 

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.

Below are some inspiring words from recent New England Pride Scholarship recipients and their supporters that remind us why we do this.

2025 New England Pride Scholarships

 

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] 

Isabelle Brandt, Souhegan HS 

What Isabelle says about wrestling…

“As a female wrestler, this sport has taught me how
to find and express my grit, determination, passion
for the sport, and success. I have had to learn how to
overcome loss and learn from my mistakes. I have
learned how to push myself to be the best athlete I
can be and to never give up. Wrestling to me is far
more than a sport. It has taught me life lessons that I
will carry with me through the rest of my life. I have
made friendships that I will cherish and carry with
me through life. Wrestling has shown me that I am
more than I think I am and that I can do whatever I
set my mind to.”

What others say about Isabelle…

“One of my favorite of Isabelle’s characteristics is
her determination. Wrestling is a tough sport by
any measure. Wrestling as a young woman in a
sport where most of the competitors are young men
makes this challenge tougher still. In every practice,
it was clear that she had left everything on the mat,
to the benefit of herself and her teammates. In
competition, Isabelle brings a ‘never give up/never
back down’ attitude to her matches, regardless of
how good the opponent is. She consistently respects
her competition, officials and coaches in a way that
made me incredibly proud to be her coach.”

Liz Donovan, Pelham HS 

What Liz says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been a part of my life for over a decade.
Growing up as a female in the sport you didn’t often
see many other girls wrestling at tournaments. Getting
to compete alongside other girls with the same passion
has been an incredible experience for me. I have
advocated for women’s wrestling and equality in the
sport between men and women. Watching women’s
wrestling prosper and grow has brought me such joy.”

What others say about Liz…

“Liz has spearheaded the movement of female
wrestling in New Hampshire through her
accomplishments and drive. She has proven to all
that female wrestling is alive and well, with numbers
growing statewide. Liz has been a cornerstone for
our program. She often drills with less experienced
wrestlers in the practice room, taking away from
her own practice time for the sake of the team.”

Calli Gilchrist, Choate Rosemary Hall

What Calli says about wrestling…

“My journey in the sport has been steeped in
struggle and adversity, it has taught me to persevere
and endure. It was my mom who sparked my
passion – not only for the sport itself for the fight to
grow women’s wrestling. This fight is driven by my
experience of lacking opportunities and having to
create my own. But what I’m most proud of is the
impact I’ve made within my wrestling community.
I love passing on my knowledge to youth athletes.
More than that, I feel responsible for showing girls
that they can be both feminine and fierce.”

What others say about Calli…

“I knew Calli was a great wrestler when she came to
Choate and quickly learned that she brings the same
passion for her sport to all aspects of her life. Calli
has been integral in building the Choate women’s
wrestling program. We were recently ranked 30th
in the nation – an accomplishment we could not
have achieved without Calli’s performance and
leadership. What I admire most is her compassion
to build the sport and cheer on the next generation.
Calli can often be found at youth tournaments
coaching up girls for their next big match.”

Dani Nugent, Phillips Andover

What Dani says about wrestling…

“My journey has been one of setbacks, comebacks,
pain, and perseverance, but I have never stopped
fighting. Wrestling has shaped me into an athlete
who thrives under pressure, adapts to adversity,
and refuses to back down from any challenge. As a
female wrestler competing predominantly against
boys, each win was a statement not just about my
abilities but about the future of the sport itself.”

What others say about Dani…

“Daniella’s character and leadership make her
an exceptional representative of the wrestling
community. She is one of the most hardworking,
disciplined, and passionate athletes I have ever
coached. As team captain, she consistently serves as
a role model for her peers, and is a reliable resource
for all her teammates to turn to.”

Corbin Bennett, Monty Tech HS

What Corbin says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has always been in my blood. It’s my life,
it’s my family’s life. I have grandfathers, uncles, and
cousins who all have wrestled. Lacing up those shoes
and getting on that mat, I know I’m home. Going
into my senior year I was selected as a team captain.
Honored by my position, I always worked hard
at practices, meets, and tournaments to make my
teammates into the best wrestlers they could be.”

What others say about Corbin…

“Over the past four years, I have had the privilege
of watching Corbin develop into not only an
exceptional athlete but also an exemplary student
and teammate. I have been consistently impressed
by Corbin’s work ethic, leadership, and unwavering
commitment to excellence. Corbin’s dedication to
wrestling is nothing short of inspiring.”

Michael Boulanger, Milford HS

What Michael says about wrestling…

“Wrestling is in my blood. It is the extracurricular
that has shaped me the most. In competition, I push
myself to physical and mental limits. Through the
sport of wrestling, I’ve learned that, with the right
mindset, it’s possible to overcome any obstacle that life
might throw my way. Wrestling has instilled a fierce
work ethic in me, a drive to overcome all obstacles,
that I take with me in every aspect of my life.”

What others say about Michael…

“Mikey has been the heart and soul of our club for
the past several years. Throughout this time, Mikey
has consistently exemplified the highest levels of
character, leadership, and dedication. His leadership
is not just by example but through his ability to
uplift and mentor younger athletes. His work ethic
and commitment to excellence in wrestling and
personal growth set him apart from his peers.”

Avery Carl, Middlebury HS

What Avery says about wrestling…

“My wrestling career started when I was five
years old. I fell in love with the sport of wrestling,
and I never looked back. In my first few years of
wrestling, I wasn’t very good, but my competitive
spirit for wanting to win kept me coming back.
Wrestling has taught me that hard work makes
champions in life; that you have to push through the
pain, and that it’s not going to come easy.”

What others say about Avery…

“Avery has been an integral part of the Middlebury
Wrestling program at every age level. During his 13
years of wrestling, he has helped our coaches put a
Vermont program with a proud tradition back on
the map. His work ethic, personal conduct, and love
of the sport have helped set a strong standard for
the program on and off the mat.”

Charlie Dunn, Newton HS

What Charlie says about wrestling…

“I was determined to be the hardest-working
athlete in the room. This competitive mentality
dramatically improved my wrestling, and my
improved confidence allowed me to stand a bit
taller. Wrestling has taught me that hard work pays
off, and that you can, and should, dream big. It also
taught me that when you falter, you learn from it,
get back up, and press forward. Wrestling has taught
me to commit 100% to everything I do. Wrestling
has inspired me to live my life to the fullest.”

What others say about Charlie…

“Charlie has been a true leader within our youth
and high school programs, and I can vouch for
his dedication to his teammates and our sport. We
are very proud of Charlie, as he has committed to
wrestle and continue his academic studies at Johns
Hopkins University. The combination of his academic
and athletic skills will serve him well in college and
throughout his lifetime.”

William Henckel, Blair Academy

What William says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has profoundly influenced my life,
teaching me discipline, mental toughness, and the
importance of hard work. The sport has provided
me with a framework to approach challenges
both on and off the mat, fostering a mindset
of continuous improvement and unwavering
determination. I hope that I can lead by example
and support the next generation of wrestlers who
love this sport as much as I do, helping them
achieve their dreams.”

What others say about William…

“William’s passion and love for the sport of
wrestling is what really sets him apart from other
athletes. He truly loves the process of training
and competing. However, William still has a
sense of friendliness and is an amazing teammate
and mentor to other wrestlers on his team and
throughout the wrestling community.
I’ve rarely had the pleasure of working with such a
promising and gifted student-athlete.”

Brady Kaupp, Greens Farms Academy

What Brady says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been the defining force in my life,
shaping me into the person I am today. Over
the years, wrestling has become more than just
a sport—it has been a proving ground where I
have pushed my limits, overcome adversity and
forged lifelong friendships. Wrestling has given me
everything —discipline, confidence, and a relentless
drive to succeed. No matter where life takes me, I
will always carry with me the lessons I have learned
on the mat.”

What others say about Brady…

“Brady immersed himself in both the academic and
athletic opportunities available, steadily growing
into a thoughtful, hardworking, and dynamic
presence in our community. In all his pursuits,
Brady has demonstrated a rare combination of
determination, humility, and enthusiasm. Whether
on the wrestling mat, in the classroom, or coaching
younger athletes, he approaches every challenge
with focus and perseverance.”

Seth McGrew, Bishop Hendricken

What Seth says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been a big part of my life for the
past 14 years. Through countless hours of training,
competing, and traveling, I have gained more than
just wrestling skills; I have developed a mental
toughness and the ability to think quickly. I’ve
had the opportunity to meet and compete against
athletes from all walks of life. I have grappled with
opponents of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and
belief systems. Despite our differences, we all share
a common love for the sport.”

What others say about Seth…

“Seth consistently demonstrated exceptional
motivation and leadership skills. He approached
practice, dual meets, and tournaments with a
positive attitude and remarkable enthusiasm, which
contributed significantly to the team’s success.
Not only is Seth highly capable in wrestling,
but he also has the grades needed to succeed.
He is well-respected among his peers and has
a unique ability to motivate other wrestlers.”

Jaeckez Mendez, East Hartford HS

What Jaeckez says about wrestling…

“After I tried out for the wrestling team, I came home
from my first practice with a bruise on my face and a
big smile. When I switched to a club named Fish Eye
Wrestling, my coach told me I needed good grades and
to keep working hard if I wanted to get somewhere with
my wrestling. So I did just that; I worked harder than I
ever have in life, reaching new heights in wrestling.”

What others say about Jaeckez…

“I am fortunate to have coached Jaeckez the last four
years for the East Hartford High School wrestling
team. He has great talents and abilities. Often, Jaeckez
would stay after practice to improve on his skills or
to help coach his fellow teammates. The same hard
work and determination to succeed on the mat is also
evident in the classroom.”

Talon Oljey, Timberlane HS

What Talon says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has done a lot for me personally and
has impacted my life in ways I couldn’t imagine.
The leadership and life lessons I have gained from
wrestling are invaluable, and I am committed
to carrying them forward, not only as a college
student-athlete, but also as an individual ready to
take on life’s challenges.”

What others say about Talon…

“Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of
working closely with Talon as his assistant principal
and coach. Talon brings a blend of quiet, lead by-example character and an ability to effectively
communicate with adults in his life. He has earned
the respect of his teammates, coaches, peers, and
teachers in the building.”

Andrew Pimental, Belmont Hill School

What Andrew says about wrestling…

“Growing up, I was terrified to step on the mat. The sport
was fast-paced, violent, and far from what I was used
to with soccer. I knew wrestling was not for me, until I
won my first match and came home with a medal. Then
I was hooked.. Over the last decade, wrestling pushed
me to grow in incredible ways. Tough practices, hard
losses, and long seasons have forced me to develop a
tremendous work ethic, discipline, and resilience.”

What others say about Andrew…

“Andrew wrestled in our middle school program and
then the Belmont Hill varsity team as a freshman.
Andrew was elected captain by his wrestling
teammates and is also a recognized leader in our
community whose kind and good-humored demeanor
has allowed him to mentor many of our younger
wrestlers in only the best ways possible.”

Dominick Spadaro, Fairfield Warde HS

What Dominick says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been my passion since I was five
years old. I started wrestling with the South Side
Wrestling Club in second grade and have not
wrestled for anyone else since. South Side has
taught me values that I would never have learned
elsewhere. The Southside coaches have given me the
confidence needed to walk through life and succeed
in anything I do.”

What others say about Dominick…

“Dominick Spadaro is a hard-working leader who
is the captain of our wrestling team. Dommy has
a genuine heart; he is willing to do whatever it
takes for his team to succeed. His determination
has allowed him to be very successful during his
wrestling career and even more successful in life. He
is constantly working harder to get better – not only
as a wrestler but an individual as well.”

Sid Tildsley, Shawsheen Tech HS

What Sid says about wrestling…

“In the sport of wrestling, you stand in an arena
face to face with another human being for just six
minutes. One will win and one will lose it all right
there and then. I take pride in my ability to embrace
pressure, as it has taught me to be appreciative for
every moment I get to experience in the sport that
has shaped me into the man I am today.”

What others say about Sid…

“Sid is without question the most accomplished
student athlete to ever walk the halls of
Shawsheen. His accolades across three sports
could very well put him up there with some of the
greatest athletes in Massachusetts history.
Sid is a young man who is a quick learner, eager to
perfect every skill he acquires; someone
who takes pride in all that he does.”

Cale Wood, Haverhill HS

What Cale says about wrestling…

“Through wrestling, I have learned extremely
valuable life lessons about the power of hard work
and the determination that is required for success.
After an awful tournament, I was crushed, I wanted
to quit. I knew I had two options: I could either let
this moment define me and give up, or I could pick
myself back up and keep working. I chose not to let
one bad day define who I was.”

What others say about Cale…

“Cale is an outstanding student-athlete and an
outstanding individual. What separates Cale from
all my previous athletes is… his work ethic, his
humble nature, his ability to be coached, and his
desire to learn and grow as an individual. Cale’s
intelligence, kind personality, and overall good
nature sets him apart from any athlete I’ve coached.”

Zak Zindle, The Hill School

What Zak says about wrestling…

“I smile as I think back to the early days of my
wrestling. If there was a tournament in New
England, my dad and I were there. As I grew as
a wrestler, I found my home away from home –
Smitty’s Barn. Coach Matt Smith has taught me so
much, on and off the mat, and opened up so many
opportunities for me.

What others say about Zak…

“Zak has not only excelled in his athletic endeavors
but has also balanced his academic responsibilities
with grace, showing a strong ability to manage
time and priorities. I am consistently impressed
with Zak’s resilience, work ethic, and dedication to
taking on challenges and overcoming adversity. This
resilience has been a true testament of his character
and determination.”

2024 New England Pride Scholarships

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]

ASHLEY DEHNEY, Central Catholic

What Ashley says about wrestling…

“Wrestling was instantly the perfect fit for me…
this sport has taught me to never give up…
and to work hard. Wrestling has not only
given me many opportunities but it has also
taught me so many more lessons. Wrestling
has changed my life for the better.””

What others say about Ashley…

“Ashley’s fire, drive, and determination
are truly admirable. She embodies the concept
of leading by example… never giving up on her
team or herself. Ashley left a lasting
impact on her teammates… by fostering
a culture of excellence within the team.””

DAISEY HAWKINS, Scituate HS

What Daisey says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has inspired me in different ways. It
has allowed me to make friends, travel the world,
and have opportunities that others might not
have. If someone were to ask me what wrestling
means to me, I would say family. Honestly, no
words can describe what wrestling means to me.””

What others say about Daisey…

“Over the years, Daisey has consistently
demonstrated her commitment to excel with her
strong work ethic and passion for the sport. She
is highly respected… for her positive attitude,
sportsmanship, and willingness to go above
and beyond. I am honored to have had the
opportunity to coach and mentor Daisey.”

MADELINE LI, Andover HS

What Madeline says about wrestling…

“My first year of wrestling was challenging, being
the only girl on the team and still very new to
the sport. I quickly grew to love the sport and
competing with the team. Wrestling has given
me a new way to express myself. I have grown in
perseverance and self-discipline. The love and
passion I have for wrestling gives me life.”

What others say about Madeline…

“Maddy is extremely self-disciplined and
self-motivated. Never having wrestled before, but
with an extensive background in jiu-jitsu, Maddy
found immediate success on the mat.
I have come to know her as one of the
hardest working and most committed
wrestlers that I have coached in my career.”

AMARA SANTULLI, Amity HS

What Amara says about wrestling…

“My first win… sparked an inferno and showed
me what hard work and determination can get
you. I found a community of girls with the same
passion for wrestling that I have. Wrestling
continues to help me grow as a person and an
athlete. I can confidently say I am stronger in
body, mind, and spirit because I wrestle.”

What others say about Amara…

“Amara has embraced wrestling with every
fiber of her being and is inspiring others
to get into wrestling. She understands
the importance of leadership and hard work.
Amara is an outstanding role model and peer
advocate. I truly believe her experience in wrestling
has had much to do with her growth.”

BAILEE MILITELLO, Gloucester HS

What Bailee says about wrestling…

“Going to wrestling tournaments became my
happy place. I felt right at home when I walked
onto the mat. Wrestling allowed me to find
my second family. I started to develop my own
identity as a wrestler. My view of life has changed
because of wrestling… this sport has transformed
me into the woman I am today.”

What others say about Bailee…

“I cannot say enough about Bailee’s positive
contributions and leadership roles within the
school community. Few students… have the
leadership qualities and work ethic that Bailee
possesses. Her peers as well as her teachers hold
her in high regard. She is an absolute joy to be
around.”

BRENT NICOLOSI, Haverhill HS

What Brent says about wrestling…

“I got into wrestling because my older brother Jake was involved. I instantly fell in love with the sport and found success early on. Something about the one on one aspect of wrestling really drew me in. I liked that you couldn’t blame teammates for a loss. Most importantly, wrestling taught me to be the best version of myself.”

What others say about Brent…

“Brent is a great example of a student who works hard and reaps the benefits of his hard work. Brent’s work ethic translates the most to his true passion, wrestling. He is constantly training, competing, practicing, or preparing for an event in wrestling. Brent has the skill, determination, and work ethic to be successful in any endeavor he may choose.”

VICTOR PETKOV, Ridgefield HS

What Victor says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been more than a sport to me.
It has taught me important life lessons and it
has really shaped my character. Wrestling has
profoundly influenced my life in ways that
extend far beyond the confines of the mat.
It has taught me the importance of resilience
in the face of adversity, the value of teamwork
and camaraderie, and the significance of
setting and striving for ambitious goals.”

What others say about Victor…

“It has always been a belief of mine
that most great athletes… decided they wanted
to be great and worked at it. Victor took this
approach and applied it to his whole life.
He wanted to crush all challenges around him.
It has been incredible to be able to follow
Victor’s progress as a wrestler, a student, and
a young man. He should be the standard of
excellence at every high school in America.”

NATE TAYLOR, Green Farms Academy

What Nate says about wrestling…

“Wrestling teaches invaluable lessons in
perseverance and dedication, both on and
off the mat. Success in wrestling, as in life,
hinges on preparation and endurance.
What I love most about wrestling is its
inherent complexity. This aspect of the sport
fuels my creativity and strategic thinking.
Wrestling combines the need for careful
planning with the ability to react quickly.”

What others say about Nate…

“Nate’s sincerity, diligence, and no-nonsense
approach, as well as the relationships
he creates with peers and teachers, will make
him an asset to any community. Nate is a
capable, earnest, and engaged young man who…
mixes his inner fire in pursuit of success
with a healthy patience for the lessons
of the long game, a habit no doubt honed
from trial and error on the wrestling mat.”

FISHER STITES, Newtown HS

What Fisher says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has given me a solid foundation
and it has helped me get into a college that will
change the course of my life. In the off-season,
I practiced almost every day. I learned new
techniques, improved on my strengths, and
chipped away at my weaknesses. With my high
school career now coming to an end, I can’t
help but look back on all the perseverance,
accomoplishments, teammates, and especially
coaches that got me where I am today.”

What others say about Fisher…

“I’ve had the opportunity to witness Fisher’s work
ethic firsthand, and I can confidently attest to
his relentless pursuit of excellence. In addition
to his exeptional athletic abilities, Fisher is
also a person of strong character and integrity.
He exemplifies the values of sportsmanship,
teamwork, leadership, and discipline. Fisher’s
positive attitude and leadership qualities make
him not only an asset to the wrestling team, but
also a positive influence on his peers.”

HADEN BOTTIGLIERI, Belmont Hill School

What Haden says about wrestling…

“It is an understatement to say that wrestling
means a lot to me. I instantly fell in love with the
gritty and unforgiving nature of the sport. I loved
knowing that I was the only one responsible
for my successes and failures. The lessons of
discipline and mental fortitude… and the ability
to overcome adversity are things I would not
have learned if it were not for wrestling.”

What others say about Haden…

“Haden is a once-in-a-lifetime talent…
who exemplifies what it takes to lead from
the front and sets a standard of excellence for
those around him. Haden displays a strong
interest in making an impact on the world
around him. He is the gold standard of what we
strive for… that each individual athlete becomes
the best wrestler and person they can be.”

DYLLAN DAVIS, Wells HS

What Dyllan says about wrestling…

“My uncle convinced me to give wrestling a try.
Little did I know this sport would give me the
opportunity to train with high level kids day
in and day out. The people I was surrounded
with molded my drive to always better myself
and chase my goals. Through all of my life
experiences I have really learned to appreciate
the value of hard work and dedication.”

What others say about Dyllan…

“Dyllan made an immediate impact on
an already successful wrestling team.
He is very willing to help others in the wrestling
room with technique and conditioning.
He has just as much passion in the classroom as
he does on the mat. Dyllan quickly became one
of our leaders, somebody the other wrestlers
looked up to and wanted to be like.”

MATTHEW LOPES, Blair Academy

What Matthew says about wrestling…

“As wrestling came into my life at such a young
age, never did I imagine that I would be sitting
here now with the love I have for this sport.
Being surrounded by role models, my love for the
sport just grew daily. My success opened doors
for me to attend… one of the top boarding
schools in the country. I am grateful for
the opportunities wrestling has given me.”

What others say about Matthew…

“Matthew has demonstrated exceptional
dedication, talent, and character both on
and off the wrestling mat. He has consistently
displayed remarkable skill and commitment to
the sport of wrestling. Matthew’s hard work,
discipline, and perseverance have been
evident in his consistent improvement and
success as a wrestler.

PEYTON ELLIS, Coventry HS

What Peyton says about wrestling…

“I started wrestling at the age of five and have
loved it ever since. Being a young athlete with
big dreams, I was able to develop a hard-working
mentality and a goal-oriented mindset. Wrestling
has influenced my life by making me an overall
better person. It has taught me the importance of
hard work and dedication.”

What others say about Peyton…

“Peyton is an exceptional athlete who consistently
demonstrates determination, perseverance, and
a strong work ethic. He possesses a natural
talent for the sport of wrestling, but what truly
sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to
self-improvement. Peyton is not only a standout
athlete but also an outstanding individual.”

TEGHAN MCCONNELL, Bedford HS

What Teghan says about wrestling…

“My life has revolved around the sport of
wrestling for as long as I can remember.
Ever since I was little, I have had a certain
passion for wrestling that no other sport or
activity could compare to. Wrestling has
improved my confidence, work ethic, and
my character. I give wrestling the credit
for my success on and off the mat.”

What others say about Teghan…

“I met Teghan as his youth wrestling coach…
one of those young men I could see would be a force
to be reckoned with as he progressed. There came
a time when the desire to be the best consumed Teghan, and eventually he settled in with year-round wrestling. Teghan has the characteristics of a “winner” – including commitment, discipline, composure, and belief in himself.”

2023 New England Pride Scholarships

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]

DEREK COTE, Noble HS

What Derek says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has been so much more than just a sport for me, as it has taught me the most valuable lessons I have learned in my short life…how to be disciplined and to tackle tasks when there is adversity.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Derek…

“Derek is one of the most driven, determined students I have ever taught… he is an inspiration to his peers, his friends, his teammates and to me personally.”

RAWSON IWANICKI, St. John’s Prep

What Rawson says about wrestling…

“Wrestling seemed like an impossible task. Little did I know, I was about to open the door to experiences and relationships that would mold and guide my future.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Rawson…

“Rawson has a great deal of potential, athletic ability, and the fire that any wrestler needs… I have been even more impressed with his humility, kindness, and hard work.”

NEHEMIAS PETTWAY, Fairfield Warde HS

What Nemo says about wrestling…

“My wrestling journey has been nothing short of amazing. I have friends today that I cherish with all my heart. I have people in my life who I can count on. This is all due to the sport of wrestling.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Nemo…

“Nemo has a genuine heart and is willing to do whatever it takes for his team to succeed. He possesses a great capacity for growth and his motivation and determination will allow him to meet any challenge in his way.”

TYLER KNOX, St. John’s Prep

What Tyler says about wrestling…

“My wrestling journey started when I was 4 years old… I found a love in the sport that would carry on throughout my life to present day. I am confident that wrestling has prepared me for life and it’s many unseen challenges.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Tyler…

“Tyler has a unique quality: he embraces competition. He is determined to do his best and learn from every experience on the mat. Tyler has grown into a polite, friendly young man… who has not forgotten how to treat people, always smiling and giving words of encouragement.”

JOE TULLY, Carver HS

What Joe says about wrestling…

“The more I wrestled with like-minded athletes and coaches, the more I fell in love with the sport. I will continue to set and achieve goals, and I will continue to give back to the sport that has given me so much.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Joe…

“I have observed Joe’s focus grow along with his strength, coordination and maturity. His training regimen and workout schedule is an inspiration to all of us who believe in hard work!”

TAYLA TILDSLEY, Phillips Andover

What Tayla says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has emphasized the importance of family and community… it is woven into all aspects of my life… and it will forever be a part of me.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Tayla…

“Tayla is a natural leader who defines the true meaning of the word student-athlete… she leads from the front in every area that we challenge our athletes.”

SHAYMUS MACINTOSH, Northfield Mount Herman HS

What Shaymus says about wrestling…

“The reason I love wrestling is because it teaches you to deal with adversity like nothing else… it has helped me grow as a wrestler and human being.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Shaymus…

“As a wrestler, Shaymus is not only talented and disciplined but also remarkably cerebral for a high school athlete. The most rewarding aspect of working with Shaymus, however, involves his tremendous potential for leadership.”

RYAN DONOVAN, Milford HS

What Ryan says about wrestling…

“Being a wrestler is something that I pride myself on. It is one of the toughest sports, both mentally and physically, and it has taught me so much about myself.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Ryan…

“Ryan is an extremely kindhearted individual, who demonstrates excellent character and incredible work ethic. He is an individual the wrestling community can be proud of.”

JACK CALLAHAN, Tewksbury HS

What Jack says about wrestling…

“Wrestling has affected almost every part of my life… the sport has taught me many life lessons and has shaped me into the person I have become today.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Jack…

“Jack is a leader on and off the wrestling mat… I have never met a more mature student athlete in all my coaching career.”

JOSH CORDIO, Wyoming Seminary

What Josh says about wrestling…

“While the competition… gave me new goals and a new perspective on what I wanted to make of my wrestling career, I had yet to learn how far wrestling would take me in life.”

Youth New Englands New England Pride Scholarship

What others say about Josh…

“What makes Joshua so special is his work ethic. His ability to push forward when it appears there is nothing else to give is one of his strongest traits.”

Past NE Pride Scholarship Recipients

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)