SIUE wrestling prgoram recruits two state champs

EDWARDSVILLE -- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville wrestling coach David Ray has signed two more wrestlers for the next season: Jon Young, from Kankakee Bishop McNamara High, and Gabe Hocum, from Clarkston, Wash.

Young, expected to wrestle in the 149-pound weight class, was the 2009 Illinois 1A state champion at 145 pounds for Bishop McNamaral. He finished with a career record of 135-17, including 45-1 as a senior. He also placed third as a junior at the 2008 state championships.

"Jon is physically very strong; he has a lot of talent," Ray said. "I see Jon elevating the work habits of everyone in the room, especially those around or in his weight class."

Hocum, the 2009 state champion in Washington at 171 pounds, is expected to wrestle in the 174-pound weight class for the Cougars. He finished his senior season with a 42-1 record.

"Gabe wrestles like a lightweight, moves his feet and change of level very well," Ray said. "Gabe is a competitor. He loves tough competition and looks forward to the challenging schedule the Cougars have planned for 2009-2010 year."