MANHEIM, Pa. – Central Oklahoma three-time national champion Gabe Johnson has been named Super Region IV Wrestler of the Year, it was announced Wednesday by the National Wrestling Coaches Association.
Johnson capped his sensational career March 14 at the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships in Sioux Falls, S.D. with his third straight 157-pound national title to finish off a dominating 23-0 season.
The senior from Choctaw had eight technical falls, six pins and two major decisions while allowing just nine offensive points all year. Johnson was named Division II's Most Dominant Wrestler at the national tournament.
"Gabe had an unbelievable season and this was a no-brainer for our region," head coach Todd Steidley said. "He's a champion in every sense of the word and I couldn't be happier for him."
Johnson now goes on the ballot in voting for Division II Wrester of the Year, which will be announced next week. The other regional winners were Gannon's Dorian Crosby for Super Region I, Lander's David Hunsberger for Super Region II, Glenville State's Nick Johnson for Super Region III, Augustana's Max Ramberg for Super Region V and Cody Thompson of Colorado School of Mines for Super Region VI.
Johnson is the 18th UCO individual to be named Region Wrestler of the Year.
He ended his spectacular career with a 114-16 record and won 64 of his last 65 matches, including the last 36 straight. Johnson ranks sixth at UCO for career winning percentage (.877) and is 17th on the all-time wins list in addition to having the career record for technical falls with 30.
