By Dana Becker

becker_d@iccc.cc.ia.us

Fresh off claiming a national championship for Iowa Central, Boone McDermott has announced his college decision.

McDermott, a heavyweight, will attend Rutgers University in the fall. 

The redshirt freshman went 36-1, earning 21 victories via all and four more by major decision. His only defeat came to nationally-ranked NCAA Div. I wrestler Carter Isley of Northern Iowa, 2-1. 

McDermott outscored his opponents 244-43, recording 62 takedowns on the year against just six allowed. 

"WIthout Iowa Central, I am confident that I wouldn't be where I am today," McDermott said. "Iowa Central was such a blessing and hands down the best thing that has ever happened to me.

"I really learned how to grow up and get physically and mentally tough thanks to Coach (Luke) Moffitt's madness."

At nationals, McDermott reeled off three consecutive falls to begin his run, finishing each opponent in the first round. The former state champion from Dubuque Wahlert added another fall in the semifinals before earning a 4-0 win in the finals. 

"I am just so relieved that all my hard work finally paid off," he said. "But now that I've achieved this goal, it's right on to the next one, and that's a Div. I national title."

McDermott selected the Scarlet Knights over Northern Iowa, Northern Illinois, Purdue, Oregon State and Fresno State. 

"I picked Rutgers because I instantly connected with the coaches and the team," McDermott said. "I just really love the atmosphere that surrounds wrestling out there and am so excited to be part of that."