As a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Division III, the Ohio Athletic Conference will be doing Q&A's to highlight student-athletes in the conference that embody the ideals of a Division III student-athlete. This month's Q&A features Aidan Belgiorno, a senior wrestler from Heidelberg University.

Name: Aidan Belgiorno

Sport: Wrestling (197 lbs.)

Institution: Heidelberg University '24

Major: Business Administration (Finance Concentration), and Accounting

Hometown: Midland, MI

Q: Why did you want to play your sport at a Division III University?

I wanted to wrestle at a Division III University because I wanted a close-knit family atmosphere that allowed me to compete in my sport while still placing priority on my academics. Heidelberg University and the wrestling program here has given me a family away from home that supports me and pushes me towards success in all aspects of life, not just wrestling.

Q: In one word, how would you describe being a Division III student-athlete?

Rewarding.

Q: What is your favorite memory from wrestling and competing in the OAC?

My favorite memory of wrestling was at the ONU invite in December of 2023. It was my first tournament of the season at my own weight class, and as an unseeded wrestler I placed second in my bracket. On my way to the championship round, I beat the eight seed, one seed (who was ranked 12th in the country as a returning NCAA DII qualifier), and five seed.

Q: What life lessons have you learned from being a Division III athlete?

Being a Division III athlete has taught me great time management and to always work hard. Being a student-athlete is no joke. To find success in academics and athletics, you need to be able to work hard and manage your time well. These life lessons will undoubtably translate to success in the future as life only gets busier.

Q: What is your plan for after graduation?

After I graduate, I will be getting my MBA from Heidelberg online while working as a rotational analyst in the Risk Review Group of KeyBank.