Disciplined lifestyle leads Norwin senior to Navy wrestling team

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Saturday, March 2, 2024 | 11:01 AM

The military lifestyle appears to suit Nate Campbell.

Discipline is nothing new to the Norwin senior wrestler.

“I don’t drink or do drugs. I get eight hours of sleep a night. I prioritize academics as well as work out and wrestle every day,” Campbell said. “I put good foods in my body and prioritize hydration and nutrition.”

Eventually, he might take that structure with him out to sea.

Campbell accepted an appointment to the Naval Academy, where he will continue his wrestling career.

“I chose Navy because it gives me the best opportunity to be successful in life, as well as a top-notch wrestling culture,” he said.

Navy’s coach is Pennsylvania high school wrestling legend Cary Kolat from Jefferson-Morgan.

Campbell had offers from VMI and Gannon and strong interest from several other schools including Purdue, Pitt, Kent State, Cleveland State, Seton Hill and Pitt-Johnstown.

The Knights’ 189-pounder said he first realized he had Division-I potential, oddly enough, after a loss.

“I made it to the blood round at Beast of the East, which is the second-hardest high school tournament in the country,” Campbell said. “I lost 3-2 to the No. 15-ranked wrestler in the country at the time. After that match, my confidence skyrocketed and I knew I belonged at the highest level.”

The opponent he nearly upset was Vincenzo LaValle of Hanover Park, who committed to Princeton.

Campbell, who was 29-7 this season and 87-37 at the time of his commitment, with the individual postseason ahead, was plagued by an injury last year that prevented him from qualifying for the WPIAL tournament.

He is ranked No. 5 in Pennsylvania and placed at the Powerade Tournament earlier in the season.

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Norwin