Valley wrestlers recognized by national magazine

WASILLA — A pair of Valley wrestlers have received some national recognition.

Dawson Nash and Sam Wolff have been named All-American honorable mention by Wrestling USA Magazine.

Nash, who graduated as part of Colony High School’s class of 2017 last week, is a two-time state champion. Nash earned his second straight state title in December of 2016 with a 10-2 win by major decision over North Pole’s Brandon Antesberger in the 182-pound final of the 4A state championships. Nash also won the title as a junior at 182.

He was fifth in state as a freshman and a sophomore.

“The biggest thing is he’s an incredible athlete,” Colony head coach Todd Hopkins said. “He’s incredibly strong and he has the intangibles.”

Nash finished his Colony wrestling career with a 139-25 record. Ninety of his wins came by pin.

Wolff, who graduated last week as part of Wasilla’s class of 2017, is also a two-time state champ. In the 145-pound final of the 4A state champions, Wolff scored a 5-3 win over teammate Hayden Steiner. The match marked the first time teammates wrestled in the 4A state finals since 2007. Wolff won his first state championship at 138 pounds as a junior. He also had a fourth-place finish in his career. Wolff finished his career with a 112-35 record with 40 pins.

Nash and Wolff were among five Alaska wrestlers recognized by the magazine as honorable mentions. Homer’s Jared Brant and Timmy Woo, and Bethel’s Tristen Evan were also recognized.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman sports editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.