Words that describe Luke: “Cool Hand”, Temperate, Tough, Fighter, Quiet, Cool-Hand, Hard-Nosed, Straightforward, Genuine, Loyal, Trustworthy, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, Academics, “The Best is Yet to Come”, Makes our Dojo a Better Place”.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
2021-22: As a starter for us Luke gained valuable experience. His “Work Power”, dedication, toughness, and that experience will help him have a bigger impact in Division II Wrestling. Luke earned Most Improved Award, “bongo” Ultimate Utility Wrestler, and 2X Varsity Letter Award. Luke leads by example. He makes our Dojo a much “Better Place”. “The Best is Yet to Come” for him.
2020-21(COVID Shortened Season): Luke has been a valued addition to our program and earned the following awards. NWCA Scholar All American, Dr. Lombardi Saint Award, Varsity Letter Award. “Cool-Hand” has demonstrated the “Work Power, Dedication, and Commitment” to have an impact on our team. Luke doesn’t say much, he lets his actions do the talking. “The Best Is Yet To Come” for “Cool-Hand”. He makes our Dojo “Better!”
HONORS & AWARDS
Career Record: 9-16
2022 Most Improved
2022 "Bongo" Ultimate Utility Wrestler
2022 2X Varsity Letter Award
2021 NWCA Scholar All American
2021 Dr. Lombardi Saint Award
2021 Varsity Letter Award
HIGH SCHOOL
“Luke never started wrestling until his freshman year. He trained and competed in Jiu-Jitsu until his freshman year. To see the improvement he made during his high school career in wrestling is remarkable. The ‘Best is Yet to Come’ for him. We think Luke is a great fit for our wrestling program and for Maryville University. He will have success on the mat and in the classroom. We welcome Luke to our wrestling program. We are pleased to have him and his family join our Maryville Wrestling Family.” Coach Denney
High School accomplishments:
•5th in State as a Sr. at 195 lbs
•2nd in Districts as a Sr.
•1st Oak Park River Forest Tournament at 195 lbs
•5th place Fall Brawl at 182 lbs
•3rd place Fort Zumwalt South Tourn at 195 lbs
•6th Place Granite City Tournament at 182 lbs
•4th in Freestyle State at 170 lbs
•4th in Greco State at 170 lbs
•Fargo Junior Nationals Qualifier
Jiu-Jitsu accomplishments:
•Blue Belt in Jiu-Jitsu
•NFA Superfight Champion
•3rd place Fuji State Advanced Division
•Intermediate State Champion Fuji
•Assistant Instructor at Wolves Den Training Center
High School career record: 103-45
Senior: 29-13
Junior: 23-12
Sophomore: 30-15
Freshman: 21-15 (record for most wins as a freshmen)
ABOUT LUKE
Birthday: March 10/22/2001
Nickname: None yet
Parents: Mike and Robin
Siblings: Chris, Drew, and Laura
HS coach’s name(s): Coach Rob
Greatest moment in wrestling: Placing at State
People who have had the greatest influence in your life: Coach Rob and brothers
Favorite athlete: Marcela Garcia
Favorite entertainer: Bill Burr
Favorite food: Ice cream
Favorite book: 1984
Favorite wrestling move: High Crutch
Favorite quote: What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
Craziest ambition: Walk the Appalachian Trail
If I could meet one person: Bill Burr
I came to Maryville because: To be a better student athlete
Best sports advice ever received: Have fun while it lasts
Treasured possessions: Car
Something people don’t know about me: I like pool
10 years from now: Still wrestling
