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DES MOINES, Iowa — Politicians rarely agree on any one thing, but on Wednesday morning at the Iowa State Capitol Building, a pair of resolutions recognizing University of Iowa national champion Spencer Lee passed unanimously on the floors of the House of Representatives and Senate.
“He’s an impressive young man and a tremendous ambassador of the University of Iowa,” said Representative Dave Jacoby. “We’re thrilled Spencer, Coach Brands and Coach Morningstar were able to be here. It’s always fun recognizing the Hawkeyes and celebrating the great things happening at the University of Iowa.”
Jacoby was one of 13 members of the House of Representatives behind House Resolution No. 111, congratulating Lee for a freshman season that included team MVP honors, Big Ten Freshman of the Year recognition, and, of course, the 125-pound NCAA championship.
Moments after that resolution passed, Senate Resolution No. 115 was put to the floor, this time presented by Senator Tod Bowman. Like the one before it, the second resolution passed unanimously.
“It was cool because everyone was standing up and clapping, and it’s attributed to all the work put in by my coaches, teammates, and family to help get me here,” Lee said.
Lee’s day included trips to both chamber floors, a visit with Governor Kim Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg, and countless photo ops and handshakes from all walks of life.
“I love that part about it,” Lee said. “My goal is to always be an ambassador of the sport and that’s really what I’m here to do, help grow the sport and obviously promote the University of Iowa the best I can. I wouldn’t be here without everyone’s help — teammates, coaches, fans, everyone at the University of Iowa.”
The 2018 trip to the state capitol was the Hawkeye Wrestling team’s second in as many years. In 2017, state legislatures gave NCAA champion and Pleasantville, Iowa, native Cory Clark similar recognition.
Lee wants to make it three years in a row in 2019. Only he wants to bring a larger caravan.
“Hopefully next year there are a lot more of us, bringing team and individual titles.”
