Transfer paying dividends for Roseburg sophomore Drew Dawson (Reser’s TOC 106 pounds)

“It was just another tournament. I felt good this weekend and felt pretty dominant.”

A year ago, while the Reser’s Tournament of Champions was held at Hillsboro’s Liberty High School, Drew Dawson had the weekend off as he prepared for his first district tournament as a Glide freshman. 

Dawson finished second to twin brother Carter at district, then took third at 106 pounds at the 3A state tournament while Carter won a state title. 

Over the summer, the twins transferred from Glide to Roseburg, a 20-minute drive down Highway 138 but offering a chance for them to test themselves against stiffer competition while bettering their educational opportunities.

“The competition’s a lot better, which I need,” Drew said. “I feel like it’s making me better.”

The proof showed at last weekend’s 22nd edition of the Reser’s TOC, as Dawson rolled through four opponents, giving up just two points en route to the 106 title with a 4-0 decision against La Grande sophomore Bragen Anderson.

“I’ve wrestled against all these guys through my whole life,” Dawson said. “So, it really wasn’t much different. It was just another tournament. I felt good this weekend and felt pretty dominant.”

While Drew won the 106 title, Carter reached the semifinals at 113 before placing third.

Would Drew enjoy showing off the gold eagle trophy to his brother on the long drive down I-5?

“Maybe,” Drew said, smiling. “We’ll have to see.” 

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