Blythe receives inaugural 2A Mr. Wrestler award (Video)

The Iowa High School Sports Network introduced the inaugural IHSSN.com Mr. Wrestler awards, presented by Fareway, and announced the winner from each of Iowa's three classes Tuesday.

Among the recipients is Williamsburg's three-time state champion and four-time finalist heavyweight Austin Blythe. He earned the 2A honor, pinning his was through the bracket at the Iowa High School Athletic Association 2A state meet Feb. 16-19 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. He became Iowa's 43rd four-time state finalist and the 73rd to win three championships. Waverly-Shell Rock's Cody Caldwell (3A) and Brandon Welter of Don Bosco in 1A were also selected as Mr. Wrestler winners.

According to the news release, 20 wrestlers from each class were nominated by the Iowa High School Wrestling Coaches  and Officials Association, which was trimmed to three finalists in 1A, 2A and 3A. The finalists were selected by online voting from the coaches and officials.

According to Williamsburg Coach Grant Eckenrod, Blythe finished with 185 career wins and 145 of those were by fall, which would be atop the state's career falls list. At the start of the season, Centerville's T.J. Sebolt (2003-06) was first with 136. He won 94.4% of his matches, posting a 185-11 career mark.

Blythe will be presented his award Wednesday at 2 p.m at Williamsburg High School.