State House honors collegiate wrestling champion Doug Surra

by State Rep. Todd A. Eachus

Posted on June 17, 2009

HARRISBURG, June 5 – Elk County native Doug Surra was honored on Monday, June 1 by the state House of Representatives for winning the 2009 NCAA Division II National Wrestling Championship in the 141-pound weight class.

Surra, along with his father, former state Rep. Dan Surra and his brother, Andy, were the guests of House Majority Leader Todd A. Eachus, D-Luzerne, who authored and presented the citation. Eachus hailed Surra's impressive victories over the No. 1-ranked and No. 2-ranked wrestlers in the nation to take the collegiate wrestling title.

"It was an honor and privilege to present Doug with this citation in recognition of his stellar wrestling career, capped off with a thrilling run to the national championship title," Eachus said. "I congratulate him, and his family, on this great achievement."

While attending West Liberty University located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Surra tallied a 32 and 3 record this season, and ended his collegiate career with 108 wins. He is also a three- time NCAA Division II All American.

"Doug's success and accomplishments are a testament to not only his athletic ability, but his hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence," Eachus added.

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