Kellan McKeon came to Duke Wrestling four years ago as one of the few North Carolina wrestlers on the squad. After coming out of redshirt multiple times in his career, he established himself as one of the Blue Devil's most consistent and top-performing wrestlers. As he finishes his final semester at Duke, he collected his thoughts on his overall experience for us:
"Hey guys,
Four years ago, I could have never imagined what I would go through during my four years at Duke University. My entire college experience has been shaped by my involvement with athletics. As a wrestler, I have put more time and effort into my sport than anything else. Luckily, the academic part of college came sorta easy to me. This let me put more work into the sport of wrestling.
As a senior in high school coming into college, I had two moves: a low single takedown and an armbar tilt. As I developed into a more experienced wrestler, these moves were rarely relied upon. The different series and moves that I came to use involved a lot of strategy and technique that worked off one another. My complete mindset as wrestler changed in my four years.
Fortunately for me, I ended my career on a good note. I know that I gave it my all this year and that I held nothing back. As I got a little older and was able to grow into the 125-pound weight class, I felt that I could compete with anyone in the nation. My last two years were so much fun. I am truly going to miss the competition and the physical and emotional release that wrestling has provided for me.
Last year, I beat a 4-time North Carolina state champ in the ACC Tournament. Ironically, my high school coach (and legal guardian at the time) was also a 4 timer from North Carolina. It was cool to see this come full circle for me and for North Carolina wrestling. This year, once I got my weight under control, I truly believed that I was going to win the match each time I stepped onto the mat. Although I did not achieve the ultimate goal of becoming an All American, I could not have asked for more out of myself.
Knowing this, I move on. I look forward to any challenge that comes across. The sport of wrestling and my four years at Duke University have given me more than enough skills to tackle the world ahead. Next year, law school will take the place of wrestling for me. Thanks to my coaches, teammates, and parents who have helped me out tremendously along the way.
-Kellan"
Last year, I beat a 4-time North Carolina state champ in the ACC Tournament. Ironically, my high school coach (and legal guardian at the time) was also a 4 timer from North Carolina. It was cool to see this come full circle for me and for North Carolina wrestling. This year, once I got my weight under control, I truly believed that I was going to win the match each time I stepped onto the mat. Although I did not achieve the ultimate goal of becoming an All American, I could not have asked for more out of myself. 
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