West Orange High School Wrestler Heading to West Point

A West Orange High School senior wrestler has been accepted into West Point Military Academy Preparatory School for the 2015-2016 school years, school district officials said.

Chris Morgan, who recently placed fifth in the NJSIAA Individual Championships for wrestling, will complete one year at the preparatory school, after which he will receive his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Morgan will graduate from West Point after four years with a rank of Second Lieutenant.

In addition to a successful wrestling career at West Orange, Morgan was the co-captain of the football team. Additionally, he has been a part of the WOHS Junior Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), holding the rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant. According to officials from West Orange Public Schools, Morgan plans on wrestling at West Point, but is more interested in academics.

“I’m interested in Political Science, Foreign Affairs, and Global Economy,” Morgan said. “Whether or not I remain in the Army as a career officer, I want to work in Homeland Security.”

Morgan credited his parents for their support, and also extended appreciation to both West Point Field Force Officer Vince Camisa and WOHS wrestling coach Stephan Zichella.

“I want to thank Coach Zichella for instilling character in me,” he said.

According to Zichella, Morgan received interest from a number of colleges for his athletics. “It’s a dream come true for Chris,” Zichella said in a release. “Several [NCAA Division I] colleges expressed interest in him, but his heart was with wrestling and serving his country in the United States Army.”

“Chris will have a great deal of academic and athletic success at West Point,” Zichella continued, “and we are so excited for him and his family.”

(Photo courtesy of West Orange Public Schools)