Apply for a Scholarship

Supporting Western New York student athletes who embody education, athletic excellence, and community service.

Wed – Sun Dining

Flight Night every Wednesday

EST. 1995

Carrying the legacy forward

$1.3M+

Scholarships and donations awarded

WNY STUDENT ATHLETES

Supporting wrestlers and leaders

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Fundraisers that bring people together

OUR MISSION

A commitment to giving, thoughtfully carried forward

Established in 1995, the Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund supports student athletes and community involvement through scholarships, local events, and charitable giving across Buffalo and Western New York.

Our Mission

A legacy of education and service

Established in 1995 following Ilio DiPaolo’s passing, the Scholarship Fund carries forward his lifelong belief that education, athletics, and community involvement are the three pillars of a meaningful life.



Today, the fund has awarded nearly $1.3 million in scholarships and charitable donations to Western New York student-athletes and organizations that serve the less fortunate, a tradition Ilio championed throughout his remarkable life.

Academic Achievement

A commitment to excellence in the classroom

Athletic Dedication

Demonstrated commitment and sportsmanship

Community Involvement

Giving back to Western New York

Strong Character

The values Ilio modeled every day

Who Should Apply

Scholarship eligibility

The Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to student-athletes who embody the values Ilio lived by throughout his life and career.

Student-Athletes

Applicants must be student-athlete wrestlers from Western New York who are currently enrolled in or will enroll in a post-secondary academic program.

Academic Standing

Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic record and commitment to continuing their education. Transcripts and academic references are required as part of the application.

Community Service

Applicants are expected to show meaningful involvement in their community, such as volunteering, leadership, mentorship, or other contributions that reflect Ilio’s spirit of giving back.

Apply today

Start your application

The fund awards scholarships annually to Western New York student-athlete wrestlers who show academic, athletic, and community excellence. The application window opens each spring.Complete the form below to be considered.


  • Student athlete wrestlers from Western New York
  • Academic achievement and strong GPA
  • Athletic performance and coaching reference
  • Community involvement and character
  • Annual application review by the scholarship committee
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Athletic Background

Academic Background

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APPLICANT'S CERTIFICATION AND Consent

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Community Involvement

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Personal Statement

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Scholarship Application

Submit your application

Complete all required fields below. Applications are reviewed by the Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Committee following the close of the annual application window.

Before you begin, please have the following ready: a copy of your most recent academic transcript, a personal essay (500 words or less), and contact information for two references (one academic, one athletic).

Personal Information

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What Happens Next

The Application Process

Here’s what to expect after you submit your application.

Step 1

Submit

Complete and submit this application along with your transcript and supporting materials before the deadline.

Step 2

Review

The Scholarship Committee reviews all submissions, evaluating academic standing, athletic achievement, and community involvement.

Step 3

Selection

Finalists are selected and notified. Selected applicants may be contacted for a brief interview or to provide additional information.

Step 4

Award

Scholarship recipients are honored at the annual Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund award ceremony held each year in Western New York.