Jesse Adams has added a major honor to his legendary West Virginia high school wrestling career. The recent Parkersburg South graduate was named the West Virginia winner of the prestigious Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award, as announced by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Adams’s journey to this award is a testament to his dominance on the mat. He began his career at Independence High School, where he captured state titles at 165, 175, and 190 pounds in his first three seasons. After transferring to Parkersburg South for his senior year, he capped his career in historic fashion last March, winning the 190-pound title to become just the 28th wrestler in West Virginia history to win four individual state championships.

Finishing with a remarkable career record of 177-18, Adams has proven he can compete with the best. His next chapter will see him taking his talents to the collegiate level, where he will wrestle for Appalachian State University.

The award bearing Dave Schultz's name is one of the highest honors in amateur wrestling. Established in 1996, it honors the legacy of the Olympic and World champion, celebrating senior wrestlers who exemplify excellence not only in competition but also in academics, citizenship, and community service. For a wrestler, winning this award places them among the nation's elite, recognizing the complete dedication required to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.