Top Penn State commit named most outstanding high school wrestler

Penn State wrestling commit Marcus Blaze has earned another prestigious honor as he concludes his high school career. On Wednesday, the future Nittany Lion and Perrysburg (OH) standout was named the 2025 winner of the Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award (DSHSEA).

Presented by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, the DSHSEA recognizes the most outstanding high school senior male wrestler for excellence in wrestling, academics, citizenship, and community service. The award, created in 1996, was named after former Olympic and World champion Dave Schultz.

Congratulations to Marcus Blaze of Perrysburg High School in Perrysburg, Ohio on being named the 2025 national winner of our Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award.

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— NWHOF (@NWHOF) April 30, 2025

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award,” Blaze said in a statement. “Dave Schultz was not only a phenomenal wrestler, but a phenomenal person.

“I am thankful for my family, coaches, and friends. Grateful for all the opportunities and mentors I have today. Blessed for the moments God gives me. Being recognized in Dave Schultz’s name means a lot to me, and I’m really thankful, grateful, and blessed.”

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Blaze finished his high school career with a 200-2 record and as a four-time Ohio state champion. In early April, Blaze was named the Ohio Wrestler of the Year. He is the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class.

“As the newest recipient of the Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award, Marcus joins an elite group of young men whose achievements reflect the very best of our sport,” National Wrestling Hall of Fame Executive Director Lee Roy Smith said. “We look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in the future as he continues to embody the values and spirit this award represents.”

Former Nittany Lion and new Oklahoma State Cowboy Alex Facundo (2021) was the last Penn State wrestler to win the award. Mark Hall (2016), Zain Retherford (2013) and David Taylor (2009) are also among the award’s recipients.

In addition to Blaze, fellow 2025 Penn State wrestling commit PJ Duke was named the DSHSEA regional winner for the Northeast states.

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