Class of 2025

Robert Lawton's wrestling journey began at the Watertown Wrestling Club, where, as a spirited 50-pounder, he first experienced the thrill of victory atop the podium. By the third grade, his family moved to Adams Center, and Robert's passion for wrestling flourished under the guidance of the South Jefferson Wrestling Club. His exceptional talent quickly became evident, as he became the first seventh grader in South Jefferson history to earn a spot on the varsity team.

During his remarkable high school career at South Jefferson under legendary Hall of Fame coach Patrick Connors, Robert amassed an incredible 166-28 record. At the time, his 166 victories were both a school and Frontier League record, and the 13th highest win total in New York State.

High School Highlights

* 1991 NYS Freestyle Cadet Runner-Up
* 1990 Anderson Memorial Champion
* 1992 Anderson Memorial Champion
* 1992 Tri Valley Champion
* 1993 Class B Champion & MOW
* 1993 Anderson Memorial Champion
* 1993 Tri Valley Champion & MOW
* 1994 Frontier League Champion
* 1994 Class B Champion & MOW
* 1994 Section III Champion
* 1994 New York State 3rd Place
* 1994 NYS Freestyle Junior Runner-Up & Aggregate Pin Award Winner
* 1994 Anderson Memorial Champion
* 1994 Central Square Champion & MOW
* 1995 Frontier League Champion
* 1995 Class B Champion
* 1995 Section III Champion & MOW
* 1995 New York State Runner-Up
* 1995 National High School Championships All-American 4th place finish

Robert's success continued beyond high school. As a two-sport athlete at Morrisville College, he excelled in wrestling and lacrosse, earning numerous accolades, including NJCAA All-American honors in wrestling and NJCAA Honorable Mention All-American in lacrosse. He later transferred to Oswego State, where he completed his bachelor's degree.

Collegiate and Coaching Accomplishments
* 1997 NJCAA Region III Champion & Wrestling All-American 8th place finish
* 1997 NJCAA Lacrosse Honorable Mention All-American
* 1997 Morrisville Male Athlete of the Year Award
* 2002 Inductee, South Jefferson Wrestling Hall of Fame
* 2005 Inductee, NJCAA Region III Wrestling Hall of Fame

Robert coached modified wrestling in 2001, 2002 and started officiating in 2004, dedicating himself to the next generation of wrestlers. Over two decades as a member of the SWOA, he has officiated numerous prestigious events, including the 2019 New York State High School Boy's Wrestling Tournament, 2023 New York State High School Girl's Wrestling Tournament and multiple Sectional and Class Tournaments.

Life Beyond the Mat
In 2009, Robert joined the Oswego County Sheriff's Office as a Road Patrol Deputy, where his dedication and leadership continue to shine. He has served on the Emergency Services Unit for over a decade, trained as a Defensive Tactics Instructor for 12 years, and mentored new deputies as a Field Trainer for 11 years. Recently, Robert transitioned to a day position, allowing him to cherish quality time with his family.

Robert resides in Fulton, NY, with his beautiful wife, Carina, and their three children: Cody, a junior at Oswego State; Avery, a senior at Fulton G. Ray Bodley High School; and Arya, the family's youngest, in Pre-K.

Robert Lawton's unwavering commitment to wrestling, his community, and his family exemplifies the values of a true Hall of Famer. His legacy on and off the mat continues to inspire all who know him. Robert would like to say thank you to his friends, family and coaches for all they have done.