SCMAT Exclusive Wrestling Article 2-21-21

10 wrestlers from South Carolina that inspired our state ...

... and influenced the SCMAT record book

Day #4 - Ben Connell

In the photo above, Ben Connell (Lugoff-Elgin) seeks a pin against Travis Jones (Southside) in the 275lbs Finals of the 2000 3A State Wrestling Tournament.

Ben was a four time State Champion while wrestling at Lugoff-Elgin High School.

Ben Connell - Lugoff-Elgin (2000 275 1st, 1999 215 1st, 1998 215 1st, 1997 215 1st - 3A)

Ben was a 2000 All-American as recognized by Amateur Wrestling News Magazine.

Ben was a 2000 All-American as recognized by Asics Tiger.

Ben was a 2000 All-American Academic Team as recognized by Wrestling USA Magazine.

Ben was the second South Carolina wrestler to win the NHSCA High School Senior Nationals. He wrestled his way to the National Championship in 2000 at 275 lbs.

Photo - Ben Connell in HWT Finals at NHSCA Senior Nationals

Photo - NHSCA Senior Nationals - Individual Champions

Video of Ben Connell winning NHSCA Senior Nationals

In addition to all these accolades, Ben Connell was named the National Wrestling Hall of Fame's 2000 Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award winner - the National award winner!

Announcement - Connell of South Carolina wins Dave Schultz High Sschool Excellence Award

Ben Connell has been recogned as the most decorated and accomplished High School wrestler out of the state of South Carolina!

These historical articles at SCMAT will hopefully provide accurate facts though we may always have missed some data at some point. If you notice a correction, addition or just want to comment please send a reply to scmat@hotmail.com

thanks,

Mark Buford