Hays High senior Gavin Nutting had options after high school. The opportunity to play football or continue a wrestling career were both on the table. In the end, wrestling won out.
Last week, Nutting committed to wrestle at Cloud County Community College in Concordia.
During his high school career, Nutting posted three seasons of 30-plus wins. Each of those seasons ended with an appearance at the 5A State Tournament. His freshman campaign ended with a 31-15 record, sophomore 36-11 and senior 39-5. Nutting's junior year was limited and finished at 8-1. A 114-32 overall record was the result.
Gavin Nutting
The final season of his prep career might have been the most impressive when you look past the record. Nutting wrestled in the 285 pound weight class and was routinely outweighed. The wins came as a result of his growth from freshman to senior year according to wrestling coach Heath Meder, noting that Nutting learned to scout his opponents better and had a plan of attack.
The coach also pointed out that when most athletes have a game plan until they get hit in the mouth, Nutting seemed to thrive at the point that things when off script.
Wrestling Coach Heath Meder
Nutting was also a key part of the Hays High football team as a two way starter for three seasons and started on the defensive line for the second half of his freshman season. As an interior defensive lineman he compiled 188 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, one interception, two fumble recoveries and forced two fumbles.
Coach Tony Crough spoke about Nutting's endless work ethic and how for three seasons his defensive/offensive standout on the line would log 120 to 140 snaps per game.
Football Coach Tony Crough
Nutting plans to use the two years at Cloud CC to develop as a wrestler at 195 pounds and earn the opportunity to wrestle beyond his time in Concordia.