Ellsworth Community College wrestler Gary Whitaker had success at ECC and wanted to continue wrestling with a successful four-year program. Whitaker has signed with NAIA powerhouse Grand View University to continue his academic and wrestling career. Grand View has taken home a National Title the last six years.

"I visited a couple of weeks ago and the facilities were outstanding," says Whitaker. "I think they can turn me into a beast on the mat."

Whitaker has three years of elegibility going into Grand View. He red shirted his freshman year, and during his sophomore year he qualified for Nationals. ECC Head Coach Cole Spree is happy with the fit for both Whitaker and Grand View. "His future is bright, and Grand View saw they could have an elite heavyweight with Gary. From his first year to his second everyone can see the leaps he has made to improve himself."

Whitaker has enjoyed his time at Ellsworth and has learned a lot while he has been here. "Coach Spree has pushed me academically and helped me become more self-motivated. Making ECC my first step after high school has also helped me figure out time management and how to be more independent, which has helped me academically."

Coach Spree added, "Grand View is a good fit for him and he is a good fit for them. They are a competitive team and Gary will be part of a winning culture."

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Photo Caption: ECC Head Coach Cole Spree and Gary Whitaker.