California state wrestling champ commits to Iowa State

Dana Becker

California state wrestling champ commits to Iowa State image

Coby Merrill, a returning California high school wrestling state champion, has made his college commitment official. Merrill announced on social media that he will wrestle for Iowa State University.

Merrill, who competes for John W. North High School, is regarded as the No. 7 overall recruit by MatScouts. He went a perfect 48-0 this past season to win the 285-pound title.

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Not only was Merrill perfect on the high school mat, he showed his pinning ability to sticking 44 of his 48 opponents. He also is a two-time state runner-up, making the finals each of his first three seasons.

"Thank you for everyone that was part of this journey," Merrill posted. "I want to announce my commitment to Iowa State University. Go Cyclones!"

Merrill had a strong performance on the national scene, placing third at the U20 World Team Trials in freestyle. He will be in Fargo for the Junior Nationals where he will compete against the likes of Dreshaun Ross, an Oklahoma State commit, and Michael Mocco, who has signed with Iowa.

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Dana Becker

Dana Becker is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He has been a sports writer since 2000, covering high school sports, the Big 12 and more for On SI, The Fort Dodge Messenger, Mason City Globe-Gazette, Cedar Rapids Gazette and others.