University Park, Pa., April 24, 2000 - Penn State head wrestling coach Troy Sunderland today announced the signing of Aaron Wright (Coudersport, Pa.), a 5-10, 145-pound state runner-up out of Coudersport Area High School.

Wright, the Lions first signee of the late period which began April 5, brings Penn State's 2000 recruiting class to four as he joins PIAA champions Jon Sauve from Cumberland Valley and James Woodall from Pittston Area High and state-runner-up Jason Woodall, the twin brother of James.

"Aaron is a real hard worker and a real tenacious wrestler," Sunderland said. "He came to camp last summer and we had a chance to work with him and see what a great young man he is in all respects and we were also real impressed with his family. He likes the challenges that he'll have coming in here and his goal is to be a national champion."

Wright is a four-time PIAA state qualifier who finished third in his junior season and second this year as he defeated returning 1999 state champion and "Outstanding Wrestler" Dave Patrick of Wyalusing in the semi-finals, 3-1. A four-year starter for coach Roger Dunn at Coudersport, he posted a career record of 127-15 with 72 pins and won two District 9 championships and one regional championship. He completed his senior campaign with a 35-2 record and 25 pins and became the fourth winningest wrestler in District 9 history. He also claimed four Keystone State Championships, a Mid-Atlantic title and an AAU national title.