Penn State wrestling head coach Cael Sanderson has secured a commitment from Sam Herring, a standout from Bishop McCort High School in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, for the Class of 2026. Herring’s decision marks the first pledge for Penn State’s 2026 recruiting class.
Over his first two seasons at Bishop McCort, Herring compiled a 39-12 record, establishing himself as a formidable presence on the mat. He has achieved multiple accolades, including three placements at the Super 32 Challenge, underscoring his competitive edge and skill. Herring is projected to compete in either the 141-pound or 149-pound weight class upon joining the Nittany Lions.
Herring’s commitment is particularly significant given Bishop McCort’s reputation for producing elite wrestling talent. The school has been the training ground for other top recruits, such as Bo Bassett and Jax Forrest, both of whom are also on Penn State’s radar for the 2026 cycle. Bassett has included Penn State among his top choices, while Forrest has listed the Nittany Lions in his top ten. The potential alignment of these three athletes at Penn State could further solidify the program’s dominance in collegiate wrestling.
Herring’s addition to Penn State’s roster aligns with the program’s ongoing success in recruiting top-tier talent. In recent years, the Nittany Lions have secured commitments from nationally ranked wrestlers, contributing to their continued excellence on the national stage. Herring’s commitment not only adds depth to Penn State’s future lineup but also reinforces the program’s strong ties to Pennsylvania’s rich wrestling heritage.
As the 2026 recruiting cycle unfolds, all eyes will be on Penn State to see how their strategic recruiting efforts continue to shape the future of their wrestling program.
