College News - Lawrence named Big Ten Wrestler of the Week

January 17, 2001

Lawrence named Big Ten Wrestler of the Week

Minnesota senior wrestler Brett Lawrence has been named the Big Ten Wrestler of the Week, following his impressive performances last week versus No. 8 Nebraska and No. 11 Boise State. Lawrence, currently ranked second in the nation at 133 pounds, defeated top-ranked Todd Beckerman of Nebraska 7-4 and posted a 15-6 major decision victory over Charlie Griggs of Boise State.

A native of Sandpoint, Idaho, Lawrence has defeated the No. 3- and No. 1-ranked wrestlers in the 133-pound weight class in consecutive meets. Versus Oklahoma State, Lawrence, ranked fourth at the time, beat No. 3 Charles Walker 7-6 on a takedown with two seconds remaining to win the match. He followed that stunning performance with his upset of then No.1 Beckerman in Lincoln, Neb. Lawrence currently holds a 16-1 overall record with a 7-0 dual meet mark. He also posted a huge win this season over 1998 118-pound NCAA Champion Teague Moore at the Midlands Wrestling Championships.