SYRACUSE, NY - The SUNYAC is honored to present its 2024 Award of Valor to Utica University men's wrestling student-athlete, James Post (Ilion, NY/Ilion). 
 
The award is given to an individual for their ability to overcome obstacles and serve as an inspiration to others. The recipients used perseverance, dedication, and determination to overcome a life-altering event. The inaugural award was given in 2003.
 
Post, a freshman at Utica, enrolled in the University at 38 years old after serving in the United States Army for six years. By the time he finished serving, Post was ranked as high as sergeant. He enrolled in college at 38 years old and competed on the team as a 39 year old first year student. 
 
He earned a 3.9 GPA following his first semester at Utica, the highest GPA on the team, and earned Empire 8 President's List honors. Head Coach Adam Greene refers to him as the best leader and teammate on the team.