Brendon Wright To Continue Wrestling And Academic Career At Penn State-Behrend
Photos submitted – Above: Seated: Brendon, with parents Cory and Dana Rex. Back row from left: brothers, Ethan, Ashton and Breckin Rex.
Brendon Wright, who has wrestled for the Clarion Bobcats (2022-23) and Central Clarion Wildcats (2023-24), recently signed to continue his grappling career as a member of the Penn State-Behrend Lions.
Some of Brendon’s high school highlights include: Fourth Place Keystone Qualifier (2023), Most Improved Wrestler (2022-2023), Eighth Place Hickory Individual Tournament (2024), Fifth Place Mercer VFW Tournament (2024), Senior record, 20-18; Two year varsity career record of 32-35.
In announcing his choice, Brendon, the son of Cory and Dana Rex of Clarion said, “I choose Penn State Behrend because of how nice the Faculty is, the atmosphere with the students, and it is a very beautiful campus.”
And what drew Brendon to the to the Lions wrestling program? “I fell in love with the sport not that long ago, I did not like it at first but got comfortable and actually started loving it. The main reason why I like the wrestling program is based around how welcoming the teammates are, and Coach Garvey played a big part in my decision because he reminds me of a coach of mine from my first year wrestling.”
Lions Head Coach Caleb Garvey sees this as a great fit also. “Brendon is super raw talent only wrestling for a few years, but as a coach you’re willing to take on talent like that when you see the growth and dedication. Finishing a season in Pennsylvania with 20 wins is impressive and it’s even more impressive for a second year guy.
“His personal situation is impressive as well finding a way to always make the best of his situation and get to the point of pursuing a college education and getting rostered on an NCAA program speaks volumes about his tenacity.
“The wrestling program at PSU Behrend is young and growing as I’m only going into my 3rd season. Our growth from when I arrived to now has been nothing short of phenomenal. He will have an opportunity to join into that young and exciting growing culture and I’m excited to see how much he can develop here with us.”
As for his plans after college, Brendon said, “My major is undecided. My future plans are to get the math courses I need to pursue a career in Business and become an Administrative Services Manager.”
Brendon shared his appreciation for folks who’ve helped him along the way. “I want to thank my parents, coaches, supportive friends, former teammates for helping me get to where I am right now. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Bobcats/Wildcats Head Coach Braun Gourley said, “Brendon has been a great addition to the Wildcat wrestling program. In two years Brendon has went from knowing nothing about wrestling to a future college athlete.
“Selfishly, I wish we had Brendon another year in our program but we are all excited to see him continue his wrestling career at Penn State. He will continue to work hard and get better.”
Clarion Area Superintendent Dr. Joe Carrico shared, “Clarion Area is very proud of Brendon and his accomplishments here. He has worked incredibly hard in the classroom as well as with his athletics and is proving that hard work matters. Brendon has come a long way and has flourished with his family, coaches and friends. We wish him nothing but the best with his career as a student athlete at Penn State Behrend. “Good luck Brendon!”
Parents, Cory and Dana Rex had this to say, “As Brendon’s guardians, we have been blessed with watching this young man blossom in the last 21 months. He has excelled more than I’m sure anyone thought imaginable, including himself. He is about to graduate high school with good grades, many friends, and a bright future ahead. We are proud to have him as a part of our family and call him our son.
“He didn’t even know what wrestling was when he came to us, but we knew right away this was something he needed to get involved in because he would excel. He surprised himself and didn’t prove us wrong. His refusal to fail and determination to succeed paid off, in school and wrestling, and led to an admission acceptance to Penn State Behrend and earning a spot on their wrestling team.
“Special thanks to Clarion Area High School for being a support in his achievements, Coach Gourley, Coach Weber and the rest of the wrestling staff at Clarion Area for taking him in and really helping shape him as a young wrestler.
“We are extremely excited to cheer him on as a Nittany Lion business major and wrestler under the wing of Coach Garvey, who we believe is the perfect fit to continue molding his future.”
(Congratulations to Brendon, his family, PSU-Behrend, Clarion Area and the Wildcats!!!! Have a great adventure, Brendon!!!!)