Bethel returns to Oneonta after producing the greatest wrestling career in the history of the program. Bethel wrestled as a heavyweight for the Red Dragons from 2014-19 and the list of honors and awards he earned are numerous.
A few of Bethel’s career highlights on the mat include being the only four-time All-American in program history. He was a four-time regional, two-time ECWC and a New York State Collegiate champion during his career. He was named the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the ECWC championships in 2018 and, at the conclusion of his senior season, secured the crown as the Most Dominant Wrestler in NCAA Div. III. He is the career program leader in wins (167) and pins (90).
In the classroom, Bethel succeeded as well being honored for his performance academically. He was a three-time NWCA Scholar All-American and was named to the ECWC All-Academic Team three times. He is a member of three honor societies and was the Master of Ceremonies for the 2019 Scholarship Dinner. His academic career culminated with being a recipient of the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.
As an undergrad, Bethel was involved in research projects and campus-wide presentations. He served as the President of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and was a Student Director of the College Foundation Board of Directors. Bethel served as a volunteer wrestling coach at various high schools and clubs and was involved in all community service activities for the team and athletics department.
Upon graduation, Bethel attended The University of Chester in England and received his master’s degree in Sports Management. During his two years at Chester, he served as an Intern to the Director of Sport and Active Lifestyle. His internship had him involved with the management of the Universities 50+ sports and clubs, scheduling, event management, website development and fitness and wellbeing programming.
Bethel currently is employed full time by the College as the Assistant Director of the Fund for Oneonta. In his role, he is primarily responsible for the coordination and operation of the annual phonathon for alumni, parents and other constituencies as needed.
