Takedown Report

Stage will be set for McKee to finish college career in style

Mitch McKee can see it from his house.
The bright purple lights that glow at night from U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. It’s the place where his beloved Minnesota Vikings play.
And the place where he hopes to cap his collegiate career with an NCAA wrestling championship.
“Having the 2020 NCAA tournament there is going to be amazing,” McKee said. “I will have a lot of family and friends there, and it’s going to be incredible having nationals in that stadium. It’s going to be awesome to finish my career there.” McKee starts his senior season with the Minnesota Golden Gophers ranked No. 4 by InterMat at 141 pounds. McKee placed sixth nationally at 141 pounds last season after bumping up a weight class from 133 pounds. He compiled a 24-8 record as a junior. “My career has definitely gone by fast,” McKee said. “It doesn’t feel like it’s been that long. It’s been amazing, being a part of this wrestling program and this university. I like the way it has turned out so far.” McKee has found the perfect fit at the University of Minnesota during an emotional time for the close-knit McKee family.

Mitch McKee hugs his father Steve after claiming a state title in 2014 (Photo/Mark Beshey, The Guillotine)
McKee’s father, Steve, lost his battle with cancer in 2014. A few months before Steve died, he shared one final magical, heartfelt moment with his son when Mitch won a Minnesota state high school title. Mitch hugged his father following the win before the wrestler he pinned in the finals, Malik Stewart, also came over to hug McKee’s father. The sellout crowd at the Xcel Energy Center stood and rewarded both wrestlers with a standing ovation. The inspirational story drew national attention. Rest of this story at http://intermatwrestle.com/articles/22441?mc_cid=5efd70627f&mc_eid=2ef7cbca4b

October 31, 2019 - Posted by The TakeDown Report | Uncategorized