Junior Austin Johnston and freshman Tyson Zvonar were named to the National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar All-American list, according to a March 11 announcement. This marks the first time that men’s wrestlers from Illinois Wesleyan University have received this recognition.
The honor highlights the academic and athletic achievements of both student-athletes. The National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar All-American award is given to wrestlers who excel in both their studies and on the mat, underscoring the importance of balancing academics with athletics at the collegiate level.
Director of Wrestling Adam Richards said, “I couldn’t be prouder of Tyson Zvonar and Austin Johnston for earning NWCA Scholar All-American honors. This recognition reflects the discipline, work ethic, and character they bring to everything they do, both in the classroom and on the mat. Tyson and Austin represent exactly what we strive for in our program: student-athletes who push for excellence academically while competing at the highest level. Their achievement is a testament to their commitment and to the culture our team continues to build.”
Johnston, a business administration major, finished sixth at 141 pounds in the NCAA Division III Region VI meet with an 18-8 season record. He also reached his 50th career win during the 2025-26 season, with ten victories by pin. Zvonar, majoring in physical education, earned all-conference honors after placing third at 133 pounds at the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Championships and finished eighth at Region VI.
The Illinois Wesleyan Titans Men’s Wrestling team competes at the NCAA Division III level according to its official website. The team hosts matches at the Shirk Center in Bloomington, Illinois according to its official website and maintains membership in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin according to its official website. The roster features student-athletes from freshman through junior years according to its official website, operating out of Bloomington according to its official website.
As more student-athletes are recognized for their academic achievements alongside athletic performance, programs like Illinois Wesleyan’s continue building a culture that values success both on and off the mat.
