Kent State University at Tuscarawas is announcing the recent signing of a 2019 Painesville Riverside High School graduate to their Wrestling team. On June 12, 2019, Chad Van Pelt signed a National Letter of Intent to wrestle for the Kent State Tuscarawas Golden Eagles.

Van Pelt, who wrestled at 170lbs his senior season, is a four-year letter winner for the Beavers and a two-time district qualifier.  During his senior season on the mats, Chad had a record of 23-11 and placed third at the Division 1 Sectional Tournament, with his only loss coming to the Sectional Champion.  Outside of the classroom, Chad has an excellent record of community service.  He has been a member of his 4-H club for 10 years, showing various animals at the fair.  He has also been very active in his church community as well as working for Sunshine Marketing during the summers.

"Chad is bringing a level of toughness and dedication to the team," said Dave Schlarb, Head Wrestling Coach for Kent State Tuscarawas. "He has always been one of the hardest working young men in high school, and that type of determination will help him succeed at either the 157lbs or 165lbs weight class at the college level.  We are very excited to bring in a person who will work hard in the weight room and in the classroom to make himself, and our team, better."

Kent State Tuscarawas is a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).