JohnMark Bentley of Avery County High School graduated with a 3.67 GPA and was a member of the National Vocational Technical Honor Society in 1995, 96 and 97.

He was selected to be a High School Academic All-American twice and named a Pepsi Cola Scholar Athlete in 1996-1997.

He received the National FFA Greenhouse Award and the National FFA Landscape Award. Bentley is a four-time High School State Wrestling Champion, a 1997 National High School Wrestling Champion with a career record of 144-0, including 113 pins.

He was voted the 1997 State Tournament Most Outstanding Wrestler, selected as a member of the Asics Tiger All-American Team, and was also selected to the Wrestling USA Magazine?s "Dream Team".

In addition to wrestling, Bentley was a varsity letterman in baseball, cross country and track.

Bentley was also active in his community working with his church youth group, serving as a DARE Role Model in 1995-1997, and participating in the C.R.O.P. Walk for Hunger in 1995 and 1996 .

He was Student Government Secretary, served on the Homecoming Committee, the Senior Graduation Reception Committee and worked with Christmas Toys for Tots. He received the "Citizenship Award" for his endeavors.