Cornell's Hood has high hopes for senior season

By Jeff Hare, Correspondent

MT. VERNON -- One wrestler hoping for success at the Matmen Invitational held on Saturday in Mt. Vernon was Cornell senior Tim Hood.  The Morrison, Ill. native recently was named Iowa Conference Wrestler of the week.  He has been on a big time roll lately -- going into Saturday's competition he had won seven straight matches, including the 125-pound title at the Citrus Invitational held in late December at Lauderdale by the Sea, Fla.

“It's been a combination of things really. I'm feeling good, and my practice partners are pushing me hard. That helps a whole lot,” said Hood.

Hood dominated at the Citrus open, as he scored first period pins in his first three matches. Then in the finals, he knocked off Kyle Pedretti of Upper Iowa, who was ranked second in Division II.

“It was a great tournament. The hard work is really made it come together,” said Hood.

With the huge performance, Hood moved up to number 10 in the rankings, with an 18-4 record.

“I'm excited to get out there, and wrestle some great competition, which is what is about as a wrestler. It has been good so far, now is time to step it up.”

And step it up, he hopes to do. According to Hood, he is pushing for some big things.

“My goal is not to lose the rest of the year. It would be tough, but I can really see it happening.”