Shoreham-Wading River’s standout wrestler Gavin Mangano has officially chosen his next stop.
Mangano committed last week to wrestle for the Penn State Nittany Lions, becoming the program’s first commit for the Class of 2027. His decision gives the defending national champions another blue-chip talent to build around.
Mangano enters college as the No. 1 recruit in New York State from his class and the No. 13 recruit nationally. He projects as a 149- or 157-pounder at the collegiate level, where Penn State has consistently produced NCAA champions.
If he ultimately wrestles at 157 pounds, it could create an especially intriguing situation with PJ Duke, the No. 2 overall recruit in the Class of 2025. Duke is also projected at 157, meaning two of New York’s premier wrestlers could compete side by side—or possibly battle for lineup spots—at the same weight. Both athletes trained under Khaled Dassan at KD Training Center, making their potential convergence in State College all the more compelling.
Mangano’s high school career has already reached legendary status. Dominant on the mat, he even captured a state title this past March despite suffering a broken leg. His ability to fight through the injury showcased his resilience and competitive fire, traits that Penn State head coach Cael Sanderson has long valued in his wrestlers.
Mangano later described being in pain during that state championship match but said his adrenaline and determination carried him through. Doctors initially projected his recovery at eight to twelve weeks, and the Nittany Lions expect him to be fully healthy by the time he arrives on campus in 2027.
For Penn State, already a powerhouse program, Mangano’s commitment reinforces their grip on elite recruiting. For Gavin Mangano, it’s the next step in a career that has already been defined by toughness, talent, and championship aspirations.