Football or Wrestling? Willard senior Hunter Yeargan could’ve done either in college, but the multi-sport star decided on the mat. Yeargan announced his commitment to wrestle at division-1 Ohio University of the MAC via Twitter Tuesday afternoon; a decision he made just two weeks ago.
Extremely blessed to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at the University of Ohio. pic.twitter.com/jDdcoqFDXy
— Hunter Yeargan (@HunterYeargan) February 23, 2016
“I really like the coach and the team,” said Yeargan. “I stayed with them for a weekend, fell in love with the campus and felt like it was the right place.”
Yeargan wrapped up his impressive prep wrestling career last weekend with a disappointing second place finish in the Class 3 195 pound category after winning a state championship as a junior.
Washington’s Jared Rennick picked up a takedown in the final seconds to upset the top ranked Yeargan in a 4-3 decision.
“I came up short this year, but I’m going to use that motivation in the NCAAs,” said Yeargan who says his ultimate goal is to win a national title in college.
Yeargan finished his senior season with a 53-1 record, 189-8 for his four-year varsity career at Willard after transferring from Ash Grove prior to his freshman year.
Also an all-state running back on the football field, Yeargan had interest from the likes of Mizzou and Missouri State, but ultimately went the wresting route to compete immediately.
“I wanted the mat time,” said Yeargan. “I knew going there I should start next year and won’t have to redshirt.”
"He is a very mature kid," said Willard football coach Brock Roweton. "He worked extremely hard in the weight room to become who he is."
Yeargan anticipates wrestling at the NCAA-1 197 lb weight class.
He also received wrestling interest from new NCAA-II program Drury, Ohio State and Appalachian State.
Yeargan will officially sign his national letter of intent on April 13th.
