JOPLIN — Parker Hansen proved again Saturday he’s king of SWMO’s lightweights, and not just the 106-pound weight class. But he’s actually hoping not to hold onto that crown for too long.
The Ozark freshman posted a shutout with a 7-0 triumph against Neosho’s Marztian Ioanis in the Class 4 District 3 106 final. It was Hansen’s third lopsided win in as many matches against Ioanis this season.
Earlier this season in an Ozark dual at Kickapoo, Hansen wrestled at 113 and pinned the Chiefs’ Garrett Cookman in the first period. That outcome became more impresive on Hansen's resume after Cookman won the 113 District championship Saturday.
Hansen bumped up to 113 on a couple occasions and each time was glad to do so.
“I've gone up because coach (Tod Sundlie) wanted me to make a statement,” Hansen said. “I wanted to show that it's not just my size why I'm beating kids. I'm good for a reason and my work’s paying off.”
Heading to State, Hansen (39-2) has yet to lose to an in-state foe at 106 or 113. He’s all but certain State will be his finale at 106.
“Probably, unless I just don't... Click here to read full article
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