Shane Nolan tallies another prestigious accomplishment

by Curtis Brooks, Sports Editor

June 13, 2012

Shane Nolan. Contributed photo

Senior wrestler Shane Nolan was awarded on May 12 with the final achievement of his amateur career as he was named to the National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Academic Team.

Nolan was one of the 166 collegiate wrestlers to be awarded by the organization.

Nolan received the prestigious academic honor for the third consecutive season as a member of the Black and Gold, earning first-team laurels for his work in the classroom this past school year.

The senior also earned the award as a sophomore and a junior.

The Pennsylvania native was graduated with a bachelor's degree in physical education a week prior to receiving the academic accolade.

Nolan completed his undergraduate course work with a stellar grade point average.

After qualifying for the NCAA Division II National Championships for the second straight time in the 2011-2012 campaign, Nolan was able to finish sixth in the 197-pound tournament.

The two time NCAA national qualifier was en route to his first All-American honor.

The 197-pound grappler finished his prep career with a 102-35 record on the mat, including a 25-9 as a season.

Nolan began his career at Mercyhurst North East, where he accumulated a 33-5 record as a freshman.

Nolan finished his career as a Brave with an impressive 49-23 record against Division II competitors including winning 11 of his final 16 matches.