May 2, 2006

MANHEIM, Pa. - The National Wrestling Coaches Association announced today its annual list of All-Academic Division I wrestlers for the 2005-06 season. Two members of George Mason's wrestling team, senior Joel Caruso and redshirt freshman Will Powars, were among the 68 wrestlers recognized by the NWCA as Academic All-Americans for their pursuit of excellence in the classroom.

Thirteen wrestlers on the team carried GPAs over a 3.8, including Caruso, who recorded a GPA of 3.90 while majoring in Physical Education. He received his bachelor's degree in Physical Education in December and is currently pursuing his master's degree in Education Leadership. On the mat, the transfer from Northern Virginia Community College went 18-11 overall last season at the 197-pound weight class to end his career with a 26-17 overall mark in two years of competition at Mason.

Powars has compiled a 3.27 GPA while pursuing a degree in Business at George Mason. In addition to his success in the classroom, Powars has been equally successful in his athletic pursuits, placing fourth at the CAA Championships at the 133-pound weight class last season after finishing with a 26-14 overall record during the regular season.

To qualify for selection to the NWCA All-Academic Team, wrestlers must A) have a 3.2 GPA and been an NCAA qualifier or won 60 percent of his total schedule and must have competed in 60 percent of team schedule or B) have a 3.0 GPA and earned NCAA All-American honors.