Even the record book couldn't stop Mahomet-Seymour High School (MSHS) wrestler Hunter Crowley this year.
Crowley's 53 wins is now the record at MSHS, and he ranks fourth in school history with 147 victories. He also set the season record for pins, with 37, and career pins, with 80.
"When it comes to pinning, Hunter is really good at breaking down his opponent and securing their wrist," head wrestling coach Rob Ledin told the Chambana Sun. "Once he is able to control their arm, he remains 'heavy' on them, keeping downward pressure while turning them to their back with the straightened bar arm. We call it 'digging out a bar.'"
But Crowley's senior year wasn't all about his individual achievements. He also led the Bulldogs to a 20-6 record and a trip to the state quarterfinals.
"Hunter does a great job of controlling the neutral tie-up positions," Ledin said. "He slows down his opponents offense and controls the pace of the match. Basically, he makes his opponents wrestle his style. Hunter utilizes the fundamental positions throughout the match. From his neutral stance to his bottom and top positions, Hunter is rarely out of position, and that makes it difficult for his opponents to capitalize on his mistakes, because he rarely makes any. If you’re looking for something flashy, you won’t see it out of Hunter. Hunter’s style proves that fundamentals wins championships."
Crowley succeeded elsewhere, as well. His status as a member of the National Honor Society and cancer survivor combined with a set-by-example attitude to earn him the respect of both his peers and coaching staff.
"Hunter is one of the hardest workers in the room," Ledin said. "He is a quiet and humble leader that others respect and appreciate. Hunter leads by example with his blue-collar, workman’s persona."
Crowley is undecided about his plans, though he is leaning toward attending Milliken University in Decatur.
One thing is for certain: Crowley left an impact on those around him at MSHS.
"Hunter is great young man that we will miss from our team and our school," Ledin said.
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