Letter to the editor: Why Pa. turns out stellar wrestlers like Spencer Lee

I enjoyed Bill Beckner’s article “Iowa senior, Franklin Regional grad Spencer Lee named nation’s top wrestler” (March 30, TribLIVE). The article looked at Lee being named the Hodge Trophy winner for two years in a row, which is remarkable. Lee’s career at Iowa has been incredible as was his high school accomplishment of three state championships.

There are several reasons why so many high school wrestlers from Western Pennsylvania excel in college wrestling. The level of competition in this part of the state is at a very high level. Also, there are top wrestling tournaments like the Powerade, with top wrestlers from Pennsylvania and other states. Finally, there are groups like Young Guns and All American Wrestling Club.

Lee competed and excelled at the highest level in high school and that continued in college. We are lucky to live in a state where so many NCAA place winners live, train, and compete year-round. As a daily reader of the Trib, I do appreciate your coverage of both high school and college wrestling.

Here’s wishing Spencer Lee continued success next wrestling season. It has been amazing to see him in action winning three NCAA titles with one more year left in a stellar career.

Michael Hricik

Mt. Pleasant