Simon Ruiz ‘23 is coming off a historical season for the Delbarton Wrestling program. When it comes to winning, Ruiz is the embodiment of it. Simon capped off his stellar season at 157 pounds with a commanding state championship at Boardwalk Hall ( city?) in March. Winning is simply a part of who Ruiz is. He boasts a 70-11 record over his three years at Delbarton and recorded an astonishing 34-1 record this year. In November, Ruiz announced his commitment to Cornell University to continue his wrestling career prompting the creation of his nickname, “Big Red.”

His athletic career, however, did not start with wrestling. Growing up, he played baseball, soccer, rugby, and MMA. His interest in MMA sparked his love for wrestling while he was young. He began the sport when he was in 1st grade and simply never looked back. Ruiz has dominated every level of wrestling in which he competed. 

Ruiz isn’t only an amazing wrestler, however, but also a very strong academic student at Delbarton. When it comes to school, Simon also dominates the books, which led to his commitment to one of the most prestigious Ivy League universities in the country. Ruiz’s favorite subjects are math and science, which he will likely look to continue throughout college. 

Although wrestling encompasses most of Simon’s time, he still finds ways to take a break. Ruiz said, “I love to just spend time with my friends and relax when I am not wrestling.” 

 Simon will look to continue his success on the mats next year as he seeks his second state New Jersey championship.