Senator Tony Hwang Honors Fairfield Warde Wrestling Team’s Championship Excellence Under Coach Jason Shaughnessy

(Watch Press Conference Here)

FAIRFIELD, CT – State Senator Tony (R-Fairfield) Hwang proudly recognized the Fairfield Warde High School wrestling team and Coach Jason Shaughnessy for their extraordinary achievements, including capturing their second consecutive CIAC Class LL State Championship and third straight FCIAC Conference title.

The Mustangs’ recent triumph adds to a growing legacy of excellence under Coach Shaughnessy, who has built one of the most respected high school wrestling programs in Connecticut. Since the program’s early championship years in 2006 and 2009-2010 (Class L titles), Fairfield Warde has continued to grow in strength, discipline, and unity. The latest state championship marks the team’s fifth overall and the second time in school history they have won back-to-back state titles.

Senator Hwang, a longtime supporter of the program since 2006 when Warde earned its first CIAC championship, expressed admiration for the sustained excellence and character displayed by the athletes and their coach.

“Coach Shaughnessy has built a tradition of teamwork first as a foundation for achieving excellence,” said Sen. Hwang. “Wrestling may be based on one-on-one competition, but it is the bond between teammates, pushing each other, holding each other accountable, and showing up every day – that defines championship teams. That culture, along with a commitment to academic achievement, has become the hallmark of the Fairfield Warde wrestling program.”

With over 500 dual-meet wins in his storied career, Coach Shaughnessy was recently inducted into the Connecticut Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, further cementing his legacy as a leader who prioritizes not just wins, but the growth and integrity of his athletes.

Under his leadership, Warde wrestling has consistently produced standout student-athletes who excel on and off the mat. The team’s success reflects not only superior coaching, but also the values of discipline, perseverance, and academic dedication that the program instills in every athlete.

“Senator Hwang talks about teamwork, and one phrase I always use is 14 strong—14 guys compete in FCIAC, 14 compete in States, and every one of them need to contribute to be part of the team to get the accolades,” added Coach Jason Shaughnessy. “We talked about student-athletes; there are 8 seniors behind me committed to wrestle in college—which shows the emphasis on both student and athlete. Continuing education and competing in college is something I am very proud of.”

“It is impressive to win a state championship in any sport, but to come back and do it again is not only a testament to the hard work and dedication of this team and coaching staff. They did not rest on their laurels; they continued to work and to fight,” said Fairfield Superintendent Michael Testani. “To echo Senator Hwang, these are student-athletes, and Coach Shaughnessy emphasizes the student part equally as the athlete part. So savor the moment, these bonds you are building will last forever.”

Senator Hwang emphasized that the Warde wrestling program is a shining example of how public school athletics can build character, community, and leadership.

“Coach Shaughnessy and these athletes exemplify what it means to represent your school and town with pride,” Hwang added. “Their commitment to each other, their sport, and their education is something we can all celebrate and support.”

Senator Hwang remains a steadfast advocate for youth sports and education and looks forward to continuing his support for Fairfield’s and 28th Senate district student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence.