Covina, California — Marcus Tolentino, a senior at Northview High School in the Covina-Valley Unified School District, has secured a prestigious wrestling scholarship to the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kingspoint, New York.
Marcus Tolentino’s journey from energetic youth to scholar-athlete started when his parents introduced him to wrestling in seventh grade. This early exposure ignited a passion that has driven him through four successful years on Northview High School’s varsity team as a Fil-Am student.
Out of 2,000 applicants, Tolentino was selected as one of the 200 scholars for the rigorous program at USMMA. The academy is renowned for training future officers in the Merchant Marine, military branches, and transportation sectors.
“Receiving this scholarship is what my parents and I have been dreaming of for years,” Tolentino expressed. “All the hard work and dedication I’ve put in both inside the classroom and in the wrestling room have finally paid off and I’m just so grateful!“
At USMMA, Tolentino plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering while gaining practical experience aboard cargo ships, traveling to 36 countries over 18 months.
Despite his rigorous schedule, Tolentino remains dedicated to wrestling, balancing athletic pursuits with academic achievements and aspirations of becoming a certified emergency medical technician and firefighter.
Reflecting on his journey, Tolentino looks forward to future possibilities, including potentially joining the Air Force or continuing his career in the Merchant Marine.
Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer, Superintendent of Covina-Valley USD, praised Tolentino’s leadership and academic excellence, highlighting his achievements both in wrestling and in the classroom at Northview High School.
She expressed pride in Tolentino’s selection to the United States Merchant Marine Academy, emphasizing his exceptional qualities and the district’s joy in supporting his journey.
Tolentino’s achievement resonates deeply within California’s Fil-Am community. It showcases resilience and highlights his pursuit of academic and athletic excellence.
