Eli Hale Named MIAA Wrestler of the Year

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Friday announced Eli Hale as the Wrestler of the Year following a 24-0 season for the University of Central Oklahoma 125-pounder.

READ THE MIAA RELEASE HERE

"I'm happy for Eli to be recognized for his hard work," UCO head wrestling coach Todd Steidley said. "He comes to practice with a business-like attitude, like he's coming to work, and his hard work paid off with a national championship. I'm proud of him, and I'm really happy for him."

Hale went 24-0 this season with the Bronchos and last week captured the national championship at 125 pounds, becoming Central's 44th individual champ in school history. He's also just the fourth champion to finish a season undefeated.

Hale went unbeaten with 11 major decision's and seven technical falls. He had 19 total bonus-point wins on the season.

Hale went 4-0 in duals against MIAA foes this season. He won the MIAA postseason tournament, going 2-0 and outscoring his opponents 34-8. He won the regional championship after that, going 4-0 and outscoring his opponents there 60-8. At nationals, he kept it up, outscoring the competition 49-6 in four matches.

Hale also ended the season with a 9-0 mark against ranked opponents.

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Players Mentioned

Eli Hale: 5' 8"; Senior; 125

Players Mentioned

Eli Hale
: 5' 8"; Senior; 125