Travis Clawson made his debut performance at the PIAA Championships at the Giant Center in Hershey on March 10 and while his stay did not involve a medal, his experience won't be forgotten.
"To get to states as a sophomore is a big deal," said head coach Brandon Vernalli. "Travis wrestled tough all weekend. He was right there with the placewinners. Now he knows what to expect and can build on this experience in the offseason."
Clawson, wrestling at 113, opened with a 12-2 major over Evan Davis of Clearfield. Tied at 2-2 going into the third period, Clawson put together a ten point third period to advance.
In the Round of 16, the sophomore dropped a tight 4-2 decision to Tyler Chappel of Seneca Valley, the eventual seventh place finisher who was third in the state last year.
"A late reversal was the difference," said Vernalli. "He was right there and then came back strong in the consi round of 8. He was mentally focused."
Tony Burkes, of Council Rock, the eventual fifth place finisher, scored a late reversal to pull off a 2-0 decision.
"It was frustrating to lose like that at the end but to be right there against eventual placewinners says a lot about how tough Travis wrestled," Vernalli added. "He wrestled with the top kids in the state. It will be exciting to see what he will do over the next two years."
Clawson was 7-7 last year (the Covid season) and finished this season at 40-6. "He has a chance to go over 100 career wins and possibly be a three time state qualifier. If he can stay focused, and do the work, which I expect he will, his future will be exciting."
Leave a Review