Wrestling just grew on him. Kinnell to continue grappling career at Nebraska Wesleyan University

Kofa wrestling star and two time state qualifier Kasey Kinnell signs college LOI

YUMA, Ariz. ( KYMA, KECY-TV ) - Kasey Kinnell was first introduced to wrestling in middle school by his father and friend Mikey Doerr.

"At first I was like, no," Kinnell said. "Then it kind of grew on me."

That growing interest became an itch to wrestle collegiately for Kinnell once he entered high school. To sooth the itch, Kinnell put all of his time and energy into one sport, wrestling.

"I decided by the time I got to Kofa that it was going to be just wrestling," Kinnell said. "Wrestling is a year round sport too. After wrestling season there is off season wrestling, summer wrestling. I've traveled to different states for tournaments, sometimes I did good and sometimes not so much."

Kinnell says what he likes about wrestling is the only person he can blame in a loss, is himself.

"I love the challenge and I love how it feels to win a match," Kinnell said. "It's exhilarating."

Kasey's goal to wrestle at the collegiate level came to fruition on Wednesday when he signed his letter of intent to Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln Nebraska.

"Included with my acceptance letter they sent me socks and I love socks," Kinnell said.

Kinnell will be wearing his wrestling socks for years to come at NWU. Kinnell plans to major in biology and minor in criminal justice.

We wish Kasey and his family all the best going forward.