Tragic Loss for Penn State Wrestling: NCAA Champion and Team Captain, Aaron Brooks, Loses Battle with Cancer
State College, PA – The Penn State wrestling team is mourning the loss of one of its own after NCAA champion and team captain Aaron Brooks lost his courageous battle with cancer.
Brooks, a senior majoring in communications, passed away on March 20, 2025, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was 23 years old.
“Aaron was more than just a teammate; he was a brother, a leader, and a true champion,” said Penn State wrestling head coach, Cael Sanderson. “His passing leaves a gaping hole in our program and in the lives of everyone who knew him.”
Brooks was a two-time NCAA champion and three-time All-American, and was widely regarded as one of the top wrestlers in the country. He was also an Academic All-American and a recipient of the prestigious NWCA Academic Excellence Award.
Despite his diagnosis with cancer, Brooks remained a source of inspiration and strength for his teammates, and continued to compete and lead the team with courage and determination.
“Aaron’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the many memories we shared with him,” said Penn State Athletic Director, Aaron Saft. “We will miss him dearly, but we will continue to celebrate his life and his many accomplishments.”
The Penn State wrestling team will hold a memorial service to honor Brooks’ memory, and will also establish a scholarship in his name to support future student-athletes.
Rest in peace, Aaron Brooks. Your memory will live on in the hearts of the Penn State wrestling community.
