Penn State Wrestling Adds National Champ Nathan Desmond—Following a Familiar Blueprint

Penn State Wrestling, Cael Sanderson Penn State Wrestling head coach Cael Sanderson.

Penn State Wrestling Adds National Champ Nathan Desmond—Following a Familiar Blueprint

Originally posted on Nittany Central | By Kolin Hurlbut | Last updated Mar 17, 2025 1:43 PM ET

Nathan Desmond won a National Prep Championship at 120lbs in 2024. His teammate at the time, and current Big Ten Champion, Penn State Wrestling’s Luke Lilledahl won the same tournament at 126lbs.

Before teaming up with Luke, Desmond won consecutive state titles at 106 and 114 lbs with Bethlehem Catholic (PA).

Penn State head coach Cael Sanderson must have had his eye out when recruiting Lilledahl because he also snagged the class of 2025 recruit Desmond from the same school.

After joining the prep powerhouse Wyoming Seminary, Penn State secured Desmond’s commitment in December 2023.

So, why not follow another successful training partner to the next level?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nathan Desmond (@nate_des05)

Penn State Football Recruiting: 3 Priority Linebacker targets give insight into their Recruitment

Nathan Desmond Accomplishments

’21-’22 PA Class AAA State Champion 106lbs

’22-’23 PA Class AAA State Champion 114lbs

’23-’24 PA Prep State Champion

2024 Super 32 4th place

2024 IronMan Champion

2024 Prep National Champion

Highschool Varsity Record 116-7

70 wins via fall or tech fall

Buy The Newest Penn State Gear at Fanatics | Shop Penn State Merchandise at Amazon

Nathan Desmond Fit in the Penn State Wrestling Room

Nathan Desmond moved up in weight every year of his high school career ending in his senior season competing at 126lbs. Based on this Desmond could compete at 125 or 133 early in his career. With a deep roster and established starters Desmond will battle or move up.

He does have an almost 60% fall rate in his high school career so adding these early points to a dual roster could be significant.

This article first appeared on Nittany Central and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: