Barrett Walthall, a UTC wrestling commit for 2013The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has its first wrestling commitment for 2013.
Christian Brothers' Barrett Walthall has informed Mocs coach Heath Eslinger of his plans and said he'll likely enroll in school this summer.
"I had filled out recruit info on their website but my only [face-to-face] contact with him was at Soddy-Daisy when I wrestled Blaike Henry [winning 17-15] and then he saw me wrestle again at the Cleveland Duals," Walthall said.
The 170-pounder, a likely 174- or 184-pounder for the Mocs, went about his business and finished third at the Kansas City Stampede. A call from Eslinger followed shortly.
"That's when I committed," said Walthall, a two-time state medalist with a 29-3 record this year. "I've been to Chattanooga plenty of times for wrestling and other visits. I loved the city and really want to wrestle in college."
Walthall was a football quarterback but gave up the sport to concentrate on wrestling after his sophomore season.
"I'm happy for Barrett. That's where he wanted to go, probably since last year," CBHS coach Chris Lewis said. "He's good on his feet, and he's a leg-rider. He's a good kid with good grades and a kid that works really hard. I think he'll fit in well with Heath."
Walthall is the second CBHS wrestler to commit to a Division I school. Teammate Kaleb Baker is headed to Arizona State.