Third Ballweg's a charm

Jake Ballweg's philosophy was simple: Why look for something better when you have been introduced to the best?So, it was no surprise when the Waverly-Shell Rock senior gave an oral commitment to wrestle for University of Iowa Coach Tom Brands and the two-time defending national champion Hawkeyes, becoming the first recruit of their 2010 class.“Why look for something better when it's all right there,” Ballweg said. “I've always liked Iowa. I could just see myself there easily.”No other schools were in the running, according to Ballweg. Only Iowa was in his sights.“I didn't have a second school at all,” he said. “No other schools really called me.”Ballweg praised the coaching staff calling it “one of the best in the country.” He will join his brothers, Matt and Mark, on the Hawkeyes roster. Matt, a junior, was the varsity 157-pounder while Mark, a sophomore, wrestled at 133. Reuniting with family should allow for a smooth transition.“When I was a little kid I imagined myself going to Iowa with my brothers,” said the youngest Ballweg, whose sister, Jessica, also attends Iowa. “It's pretty special I think.”The Hawkeyes are getting a special wrestler. Ballweg is a three-time state finalist, winning titles as a sophomore and junior. He claimed the Class 3A 135-pound title in February and the 119 crown as a sophomore. He owns a career mark of 133-6, leading the Go-Hawks to the last two traditional and dual state titles.Waverly-Shell Rock coach Rick Caldwell learned of his wrestler's decision indirectly, but was not surprised by the choice.“It's a perfect fit for Jake and for Iowa wrestling,” Caldwell said. “He's been around the program quite a bit. He knows what they're about and the direction that it's heading. I think that's a real plus.”Ballweg said his style is similar to the “Iowa Style” - an aggressive, hard-nosed and physical approach on the mat.“Jake's a hammer,” Caldwell said. “I think he fits right in the mold that Coach Brands and those guys are looking for.”Contact the writer: (319) 368-8679 or kj.pilcher@gazcomm.com