Monday, April 23, 2001

Lee to train at
Olympic team facility

The St. Louis School wrestler
is one of some 30 nationwide
who will attend for free

Star-Bulletin staff

Three-time state wrestling champion Travis Lee of St. Louis School has been selected to train at the U.S. Olympic Training Center this July in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Lee, who finished fifth at the national high school senior tournament earlier this month, is one of some 30 elite wrestlers who will have their room and board paid for by USA Wrestling during the July 1-8 developmental camp.

"I'm very excited about it," said Lee, who has verbally committed to Cornell University. "The Olympics is a dream but I'm taking it one step at a time. First, I have to do well in college.

"Being at these (national competitions) and being with other top wrestlers gives you confidence and it brings your hopes up that you can compete at the high levels."

Lee's coach at St. Louis, Todd Los Banos, is confident that his wrestler can attain his lofty goals.

"Once Travis puts his mind to it, he's very focused," said Los Banos. "He thrives off top competition and rises to it."

"There are a number of people chosen to go to the training center, but not many have their way paid.''

Lee will compete at the Junior Nationals later in July. He earned all-American honors at the event last year.

Lee is ranked second nationally in Greco-Roman and fifth in freestyle at the 123-pound weight class.