Aug. 6, 2008

WASHINGTON - American University head wrestling coach Mark Cody was recently honored by the National Wrestling Coaches Association, being named the recipient of the Div. I Bob Bubb Coaching Excellence Award.

The Bob Bubb Coaching Excellence award is presented annually to one coach across each division of collegiate wrestling and is intended for an outstanding coach who epitomizes the qualities and characteristics of a role model and mentor for developing young student-athletes.

In six seasons as AU's head coach, Cody has produced six All-Americans including the program's first, nine Academic All-Americans including the program's first and the University's first NCAA Div. I National Champion. Following this past season the Eagles were recognized by the NWCA for achieving the highest team GPA in all of Div. I wrestling, maintaining a mark of 3.335. After the 2007 Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association Tournament, Cody's team was awarded the Team Sportsmanship Award for exhibiting great character throughout the tournament.

"Since the inception of the Bob Bubb Coaching Excellence Award, we've been able to recognize and honor those coaches who go above and beyond when it comes to more than just coaching," said NWCA Executive Director Mike Moyer. "Not only is this award in appreciation for a fine job in coaching wrestlers, but a fine job in teaching individuals."