Rochester Institute of Technology Athletics

Nothing came easy for Waterloo, N.Y. native Tom Pearce. A four-year wrestler in the 126 and 134-pound weight classes, Pearce rebounded from a struggling freshman year and never looked back. In four seasons, he compiled a 60-24-1 record, won two New York State titles, three Empire Athletic Association (formerly Independent College Athletic Conference) Championships and appeared in four NCAA College Division Championships that included competitors from all divisions. Pearce had time management down to a science. Married his junior year, he wrestled, worked part-time, took care of his family and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1974. He also served one year as assistant wrestling coach. In his final two years, Pearce compiled records of 20-5 and 20-6, serving as captain his senior year. Pearce was also named Senior Athlete of the Year in 1973