Powell and Lockhart to Compete at "Spirit of Heartland"
March 26, 2002 | Wrestling
March 26, 2002
University of Illinois senior All-American wrestlers Griff Powell and John Lockhart will close out their college careers at the "Spirit of Heartland" all-star dual meet in Cedar Rapids, Iowa at the U.S. Cellular Center on March 29.
Joining the Illini will be Iowa State's Cael Sanderson, who will wrestle his final meet of the season. Sanderson recently won his fourth NCAA Title and became the first collegiate wrestler to ever record an undefeated career.
Lockhart will face Iowa State's Mark Knauer at the heavyweight match. Lockhart finished his collegiate career with a 34-6 record and third place at the 2002 NCAA Championships. In his tenure at Illinois, the Mahomet, Ill. native was a three-time All-American, including the national title in 2001.
Powell is schedule to meet Nebraska's Bryan Snyder, who was a runner-up at 157 pounds at this year's NCAA tournament. Powell placed eighth, earning his first All-America accolade. He ended his career with 102 wins and as a four-time NCAA qualifier.
The event is presented by the Dan Gable Classic, which is sponsored by the International Wrestling Institute and Museum. The meet is titled "A Wrestling Tribute to America's Heroes." It will feature a patriotic theme, complete with color guards and a musical tribute to the Fighting Spirit of America.
