Ryan Murken

Your Prep Sports

Ashton Barker hopes to chase a state wrestling title next February.

The first part of what Barker hopes is a memorable senior year came on Friday when the West High two-time state medalist made his college plans official.

Barker announced he was verbally committing to South Dakota State on Friday with a post on social media.

“I’m very excited to announce that I’ve decided to continue my athletic and academic career at SDSU,” Barker wrote on Twitter. “Thank you to all my family and coaches who have helped me achieve this.”

As a sophomore Barker made history as the first state qualifier and medalist in Liberty High history when he capped a 21-5 season with a third-place finish at the 3A state tournament.

Last season Barker posted a 31-6 record at West High and earned a second consecutive third-place finish at the state meet.

Barker won five consecutive consolation matches following an opening-round loss to secure a second consecutive third-place performance.

A member of the Big 12 Conference for wrestling, South Dakota State finished fourth at the 2020 Big 12 meet and qualified four wrestlers for the NCAA Championships.

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