Excelling in the Ring and the Classroom: App State’s Bellis and Zovistoski Earn Scholar All-American Honors
BOONE, N.C. — App State wrestling has once again shone a spotlight on academic and athletic excellence with the recent announcement that Chad Bellis and Joe Zovistoski have been named 2025 NWCA Division I Scholar All-Americans. This prestigious recognition underscores the incredible balance these student-athletes maintain between demanding sports commitments and rigorous academic pursuits.
A Legacy of Achievement
Under the guidance of head coach JohnMark Bentley, App State’s wrestling program has cultivated a culture of success, not only on the mat but also in the classroom. Over the last six seasons, the team has proudly celebrated 25 NWCA Scholar All-Americans. Chad Bellis, in particular, has distinguished himself by being a repeat honoree this year, illustrating his dedication and persistence.
Meeting the Scholar-Eligible Standards
To earn the title of Scholar All-American, wrestlers must meet specific criteria: maintaining a GPA of at least 3.0 while being an NCAA All-American, or holding a 3.2 GPA and qualifying for the NCAA Championships, or boasting a 3.5 GPA along with participating in the conference tournament and achieving a winning record (minimum of 60% wins over at least 15 matches). This rigorous standard ensures that only the most dedicated and talented student-athletes receive this honor.
Chad Bellis: A Pinnacle of Excellence
In his remarkable season, Chad Bellis showcased his wrestling prowess by finishing third in the 133 pounds category at the SoCon Championship tournament in Asheville. His exceptional performance capped off an impressive 18-13 season, elevating his career victory total to 59 wins. Beyond his athletic achievements, Bellis shone academically too, receiving the league’s renowned Pinnacle Award, recognizing him as the student-athlete with the highest GPA on the championship-winning team. Currently majoring in computer information systems with a focus on cybersecurity, Bellis embodies the essence of a well-rounded scholar-athlete.
Joe Zovistoski: A Business-Minded Champion
Joining Bellis in this notable distinction is Joe Zovistoski, who is also making waves in the world of collegiate wrestling. As a business administration major, Zovistoski’s commitment to his sport is evident through his record of 12-6 at 174 pounds during the 2024-25 season, where he claimed a third-place finish at the Mountaineer Invitational and a fifth-place finish at the Patriot Open. Winning two-thirds of his matches underscores his skill and determination, setting a strong foundation for future success in both wrestling and academics.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The outstanding achievements of Chad Bellis and Joe Zovistoski are a testament to their hard work, tenacity, and commitment to excellence in both sports and studies. As they continue to excel, they not only elevate their personal standards but also enhance the reputation of the App State wrestling program. With coaches like JohnMark Bentley leading the charge and instilling core values of dedication and perseverance, the future looks incredibly bright for these scholar-athletes and their teammates.
For more information on App State wrestling achievements and updates, visit App State Sports.
This engaging narrative not only highlights the impressive accomplishments of these athletes but also serves as a call to action for aspiring scholar-athletes everywhere. Whether you’re on the path to academic excellence in college or navigating the competitive world of sports, remember to strive for balance—it’s truly the key to success!
