From the Annapolis (Maryland) Capital http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2004/12_21-39/HIG
Wrestling: Standout Glen Burnie wrestler ineligible
By MICHAEL PIPER, Staff Writer
After consulting with Glen Burnie athletic director Bruce Sider, wrestling coach Joe Key confirmed last week that state champion heavyweight Justin Neal is ineligible for the current season.
Key had hoped that Neal, who had reportedly failed to make weight, might get his grades in order and be ruled eligible starting yesterday. When that didn’t happen, the head coach said his top wrestler’s season was over.
“He won’t wrestle again this season, “Key said.
The question of college now looms large for Neal. With a strong season this year, Neal would have been viewed as one of the best heavyweights in the nation, Key believes. Now, a junior college or prep school is the likely destination for the talented senior.
Neal went 27-1 as a junior, defeating Meade heavyweight Alec Eaton in the county, region and state finals.
As a sophomore, Neal transferred from Mount Hebron in Howard County. He was 21-1 and the top-seeded heavyweight headed into the county tournament until being ruled ineligible the day before the tourney was set to begin. As a sophomore, he was also ranked second in his class in the state according to the Maryland State Wrestling Association.
Wrestling Gear
