NORFOLK, Va. -- Norfolk State University and the HBCU Wrestling Initiative recently announced the Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic, taking place June 28-29, 2024, on the university's campus. This milestone two-day event will feature separate clinics for girls on June 28 and boys on June 29, instructed by Norfolk State wrestling alumni and wrestlers coached by Spartan alumni.

"I'm excited with the opportunity to lead a wrestling clinic at Norfolk State University. It's where my wrestling career began, and it's really unique for me to have the opportunity to have teammates, former athletes that I coached at NSU, alongside the women wrestlers that I am coaching currently," said Kirwyn Adderley, Norfolk State wrestling alumnus, All-American, and lead Clinician for the event. "Hopefully, this is the first step in potentially bringing Division 1 women's and men's wrestling programs to Norfolk State University and the Hampton Roads area."

The clinic aims to increase participation and accessibility in the sport of wrestling for a new generation of athletes in the region. Norfolk State has a storied wrestling history, with the program previously competing at the Division II level. Norfolk State dropped their wrestling program in 1998. The program was highly successful both on and off the mat up until that point; Having produced numerous collegiate All-Americans, doctors, PhDs, businessmen, and coaches who have had positive impacts on girls and boys. 

"We are extremely excited to announce the Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic, a collaboration with the HBCU Wrestling Initiative," said Melody Webb, Norfolk State Director of Athletics. "This milestone event will celebrate the tremendous careers of our historic program while increasing participation and accessibility to the sport for a new generation of athletes. I am confident this will be a rewarding experience for both attendees and alumni, bringing the Spartan community together to showcase the sport of wrestling at Norfolk State."

Norfolk State University's Rich Wrestling History

Norfolk State University boasts a rich history in wrestling, having produced numerous All-Americans and significant accomplishments over the years. The Spartan wrestling program has been a cornerstone of the university's athletic department, reflecting the excellence and dedication of its athletes.

Many former members of the Norfolk State wrestling team have gone on to achieve remarkable success at the highest levels within their professions. Raised from rigorous training regimens and expert coaching, former NSU wrestlers have honed their skills to compete on the international stage, representing their alma mater with pride and distinction. Beyond their athletic achievements, these individuals have also demonstrated remarkable leadership and resilience, serving as role models for aspiring wrestlers and professionals everywhere.

Kirwyn Adderley is a highly accomplished workforce management leader renowned for his unwavering commitment to enhancing patient care, customer satisfaction, and team performance. Joining Walgreens in 2010 as the Director of Workforce Management in Orlando, FL, Kirwyn swiftly ascended to prominence, overseeing critical workforce functions. His exceptional contributions were recognized in 2014 when he was awarded the prestigious title of 'Professional of the Year' by the Society of Workforce Planning Professionals. A graduate of Norfolk State University with a bachelor's degree in business administration, Kirwyn currently leads the workforce management team for centralized services supporting pharmacy, prescription fulfillment, retail, and digital business units at Walgreens. He manages a diverse team of 41 members, ensuring seamless operations across a vast network of centralized services sites and distributed workforce locations spanning over 40 states.

● Notable Wrestling Accomplishments: A two-time All-American who placed 2nd in 1989 and 6th in 1988 at 134 lbs (Div II).

Charles "Chuck" Daniels' life has been dedicated to service, leadership, and education. Graduating from FSU with a bachelor's degree in health and physical education, Chuck's academic journey at NSU laid the foundation for a career defined by excellence. Serving in the U.S. Army from 1995 to 2016, Chuck's distinguished military career included various roles such as CA Team Sergeant and Assistant Operations Sergeant. Notably, he was a member of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program from 2001 to 2004. Concurrently, Chuck's passion for coaching led him to serve as the Head Wrestling Coach at Pine Forest High School from 2017 to 2022. Currently, Chuck continues his service as the CA Team Sergeant at 95th Civil Affairs HQ Co., where his expertise and leadership continue to make a significant impact.

● Notable Wrestling Accomplishments: A two-time All-American who placed 3rd in 1995 and 5th in 1994 at 167 lbs (Div II).

Jonathan A. Mason, Sr. epitomizes a lifetime commitment to humanitarianism and global leadership, leaving an indelible mark through his unwavering dedication to service. As the Pastor of Northeast Baptist Church and Past International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, Jonathan's visionary leadership extends far beyond borders.

Inspired by the legacy of his father, Reverend Lee Mason, Jr., Jonathan's philanthropic endeavors have led to the adoption of a school in Suhum, Ghana, ensuring that the educational needs of 300 children in the village are met annually. A proud alumnus of Norfolk State University, Jonathan's commitment to his alma mater is evident in his endowment for Mass Communications students and his receipt of the Distinguished Alumni Award. With a stellar career in radio marketing, Jonathan's professional achievements mirror his commitment to excellence and service.

Cameron Mix excelled in both athletics and service. Graduating from Bitburg High School, Cameron achieved success as a two-time State Champion in wrestling in 1988 and 1989. Continuing his journey, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication at NSU, where he also showcased his wrestling prowess from 1990 to 1994. Cameron's commitment to serving others led him to become a licensed minister in 1998. His demonstration of grit became evident as he overcame thyroid cancer in 2003, following his recognition as the 2002 Navy Junior Sailor of the Year. After a fulfilling career in the US Navy, Cameron transitioned into coaching, shaping the lives of aspiring wrestlers. Beyond athletics, Cameron is a devoted husband and father. In 2020, he co-founded Mix and Son Carpentry Business, further demonstrating his versatility and commitment to excellence.

Christopher Pearson's journey is marked by a commitment to service and community impact. Beginning his path as a wrestler at NSU from 1986 to 1992, Christopher's passion for athletics was matched by his academic pursuits, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. Transitioning to military service in the USMC, Christopher's dedication to duty and leadership skills were honed. Presently, he serves as the Supportive Housing Service Manager at Community Alternatives Inc. Additionally, Christopher has made a profound impact as the Head Coach of Wrestling at Heritage High School since 1997.

Corey Williams is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning technology, fashion, and education. Currently serving as a Federal Cloud Executive at Oracle Corp. in Reston, VA since June 2021, Corey brings extensive experience in government defense and intelligence. Alongside his corporate role, Corey is also the Co-Owner and Lead Designer at C3 Apparel LLC since April 2023. Prior to his current position, Corey spent over a decade at Mythics Inc. in Virginia Beach, VA, where he earned multiple prestigious awards. Corey's commitment to excellence extends beyond the corporate realm, having dedicated twelve years to education within the Virginia Beach City Public Schools system.

● Notable Wrestling Accomplishments: Achieved 5th place in 1995 at 134 lbs (Div II).

Dr. Michael Wood epitomizes a multifaceted educational leader, boasting over two decades of transformative contributions within the field. With a Ph.D. in Workforce Education and Development from The Pennsylvania State University, Dr. Wood is a proud graduate of NSU. His expertise spans administration, supervision, and post-secondary leadership. As a published author and seasoned presenter at esteemed conferences, Dr. Wood is at the forefront of educational discourse. Beyond academia, his entrepreneurial spirit shines through as the COO of Jones Barnes & Wood LLC and CEO of Synergistic Solutions LLC. Driven by a passion for community upliftment, Dr. Wood co-founded the Pure Gold Uplift Foundation and The Pure Gold Alumni Chapter.

● Notable Wrestling Accomplishments: Finished 6th in 1986 at 167 lbs (Div II), contributing to the team's overall success and 2-year Captain.

Dr. Lee Isabell, DO, is board certified in Internal Medicine with special training in primary care HIV management. Dr. Isabell was a Scholar Athlete in Wrestling at Norfolk State University from 1990 till 1994. He has been a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated for more than 29 years. Dr. Isabell received his Bachelor of Science degree from Norfolk State University in 1994 and attended New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he received his Degree of Osteopathic Medicine in 1999. Dr. Isabell has been practicing medicine in the New York State Mid-Hudson area since 2003 and currently works for Nuvance Health. He also is the Associate Chair of the Internal Medicine Department at Northern Dutchess Hospital.

Other Notable Wrestling Accomplishments

• ●  James Hayes: Placed 4th in 1994 at 190 lbs (Div II).

• ●  Johnell Gainey: Earned All-American honors in 1991, placing 6th at 167 lbs (Div II).

• ●  William Martin: Placed 8th in 1986 at UNL/HWT (Div II).

• ●  Ira Cheatham: Secured 3rd place in 1986 at 134 lbs (Div II).

• ●  Anthony Harris: Achieved 8th place in 1981 at 190 lbs (Div II).

• ●  James Lee: Placed 2nd in 1968 at 177 lbs.

  Significance for HBCU Wrestling Initiative

  "The Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic represents a major step forward for the HBCU Wrestling Initiative and our mission to revive wrestling programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities," said Jahi Jones, Executive Director of HBCU Wrestling. "The wrestling alumni at Norfolk State are excited; they are extraordinary leaders, and I'm privileged to be able to work with them and Norfolk State University to bring this opportunity to their alma mater. This clinic lays the groundwork for potential future wrestling programs in the region that can uplift communities through the sport."

Registration details and additional information about the Norfolk State Wrestling Clinic will be announced in the coming weeks. For the latest updates, please visit support.hbcuwrestling.org/norfolkstatewrestlling

Contact:

Historically Black Colleges & Universities Wrestling Initiative Email: contact@hbcuwrestling.org

About Historically Black Colleges and Universities Wrestling Initiative:

Historically Black Colleges and Universities Wrestling Initiative (HBCUW) seeks to establish and restore wrestling to America's historically black colleges and universities and expand access to opportunities created by wrestling for the black community so as to advance social justice and produce black wrestlers and leaders who have the potential to change the trajectory of their families, community, and country. Through the establishment and restoration of wrestling programs at HBCUs, we aim to expand access to the invaluable life skills, networking opportunities, and career pathways that the sport offers.