Scott Radke '19 Recruiting Profile

My wrestling career started in 7th grade, which I would consider a late start compared to many others. I decided to start wrestling as I was smaller compared to the other kids and wasn't as athletic so I rarely saw playing time in other sports.  I was barely successful my 7th grade year, winning a couple JV matches and 1 varsity match.  Fast forward to my freshmen year of high school where I went 11-21 @ 138 with 7 pins.  As you can see, the quality of competition I did beat wasn't very skilled. I decided after my regional tournament that I wanted to be good. That started with Austin Eldredge, who is now ranked #2 in NJCAA, and Brynton Crews. We formed a group called Triple Threat (now a continuous tradition at my high school) and dedicated our summers to getting better. I placed 6th at our Kid's Club State tournament and that gave me confidence to pursue my career in wrestling.  I ended up going 31-12 @145 sophomore year and becoming a state qualifier.  I barely lost a match in the first round to a kid who placed third, and ended up running into a tough match on the backside. This left a salty taste in my mouth. I ended up beating the kid who got third a week after the state tournament, and then again, that win gave me confidence to keep pushing. I pushed myself the entire off-season and came back junior year with fire in my eyes after placing 3rd at Preseason Nationals. I went 40-4 @ 152, only losing to the top 10 P4P wrestlers in Kansas (Cade Lindsey, Montez Robinson, Bubba Wilson, Duwayne Villalpando) , and setting my school's takedown record of 156. Yet, I fell short in my state finals match. A match to this day that haunts me and I was determined to get my revenge, but he dropped weight classes. I again dedicated my summer, placing 2nd at Rocky Mountain Nationals, and traveling with Team Kansas to Junior Duals and Fargo. I hadn't wrestled very much freestyle before and didn't do very well, but I accredit it to the success I have on my feet today. I'm currently 33-1, ranked #4 All-State in 160 (will be changing soon), and have 240 takedowns on the season.  I've only had 1 decision win this year, and I believe that it will stay at.

Since my long ramble is over, time for the stuff that really matters. I believe I can be an All-American at the Division 1 level if I'm placed within the right program.  I'm a leader inside and outside of the wrestling room, but most importantly I'm a friend. I always have my hand out for those in need because I understand what it's like when no one is there to help you. I have yet to meet someone who dislikes that has given me a chance. I'm always looking on the brighter side of things, but will not cushion the truth from someone if it's their own fault.  I push my teammates inside of my wrestling room and hold myself to a higher standard because I understand that they are watching me. I have to give them a reference of what it takes to get to the next level.