On today’s show I sat down with Lawrenceburg, Indiana native Mason Parris, who has cemented himself as one of the Hoosier State’s greatest wrestlers of all time following an NCAA heavyweight title and 2024 Olympic appearance.
We explore Mason's stellar wrestling career from his high school days at Lawrenceburg, where he was a three-time IHSAA state champion, to representing the USA at the Olympics, and his current involvement in Real American Freestyle wrestling.
Mason reflects on his hometown roots, balancing multiple sports, the college selection process, his brief stints exploring careers in the NFL and WWE, and advice for aspiring wrestlers.
We also cover his preparation for an upcoming match against Wyatt Hendrickson, the defending NCAA heavyweight champion, during Real American Freestyle 4 on Dec. 20 at the Fishers Event Center.
If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.
You are going to learn about:
Mason’s Wrestling Journey from Lawrenceburg to the Olympics
Real American Freestyle
Check out these great clips from the show:
00:00 Guest Introduction: Mason Parris
00:54 Wrestling Beginnings in Indiana
03:24 High School Achievements and College Decision
04:28 College Wrestling and Academic Pursuits
08:02 Professional Wrestling and RAF
13:20 Exploring Other Sports: NFL and WWE
17:18 Upcoming RAF 4 Event and Indiana Wrestling
19:11 Reflecting on Indiana Wrestling
19:48 High School Wrestling Memories
20:18 Favorite Teams and Matches
21:05 Challenges and Changes in Wrestling
21:46 Memorable Matches and Mentors
23:31 Lawrenceburg Wrestling Culture
25:36 Training and Toughest Moments
27:19 Mindset and Motivation
28:10 Favorite Indiana Wrestlers
29:52 Advice for Young Wrestlers
30:44 Olympic Experience
31:49 Indiana's Wrestling Legacy
32:21 Hidden Gems in Indiana
33:12 Shoutouts and Final Thoughts
