BREAKING: Nittany Lion Wrestling Club’s Aaron Brooks Confirms Departure After Failing USADA Test
In a stunning and unexpected development, Aaron Brooks, one of the most accomplished wrestlers to come through the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club and a multi-time NCAA champion at Penn State, has confirmed his departure from the club following a failed drug test conducted by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
The 24-year-old, who has been a cornerstone of both collegiate and freestyle wrestling in recent years, tested positive for a banned substance during a routine out-of-competition screening. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, as Brooks has long been considered a role model for his discipline, integrity, and dominance on the mat.
In a statement released through his representatives, Brooks acknowledged the failed test and expressed deep regret.
> “I take full responsibility for the result and understand the consequences that come with it. This does not reflect who I am or what I stand for. I have always strived to compete with honor and respect for the sport I love,” Brooks said. “I am currently working with my team to understand exactly how this happened.”
USADA has not publicly disclosed the specific substance found in Brooks’ system, but under anti-doping protocols, athletes are held strictly liable for any prohibited substances, intentional or not. Sanctions are typically based on the nature of the substance, the context of the usage, and the athlete’s level of cooperation in the investigation.
As a result of the violation, Brooks will be subject to a provisional suspension pending a final decision, and he has withdrawn from all upcoming competitions, including his scheduled appearance at the U.S. Senior Nationals.
The Nittany Lion Wrestling Club (NLWC), which serves as a training ground for many of the country’s elite freestyle wrestlers, confirmed Brooks’ departure in a brief but supportive statement.
> “We are aware of Aaron’s situation and respect his decision to step away at this time. Aaron has been an incredible representative of our program, and we will continue to support him as he navigates this process.”
Brooks, a four-time NCAA champion for Penn State under coach Cael Sanderson, was one of the most decorated wrestlers in college history. He was widely expected to make a serious run at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and his performances at national and international events had positioned him as a rising force in USA Wrestling’s middleweight division.
The news has left fans and fellow athletes stunned, with many expressing disbelief but also support for Brooks as he faces the fallout. Some have speculated that the failed test could be the result of a tainted supplement or accidental contamination—both possibilities in past high-profile anti-doping cases.
Still, the setback could be career-defining if a significant ban is imposed.
As of now, Brooks has not indicated whether he plans to appeal or pursue arbitration. USADA is expected to release a full statement in the coming days, outlining the findings and possible sanctions.
For now, a chapter closes in what was shaping up to be one of the most promising wrestling careers in recent memory. Whether Brooks can return to the mat and reclaim his place at the top remains to be seen—but the path ahead will be anything but simple.
