3-Time State Champ Pascoe Leaves Void

Gonzaga Prep wrestling coach Phil McLean asked the obvious question. “Can I redshirt him for a year?” McLean quipped following Travis Pascoe’s third straight state championship.

There was no joking about the impact the Rathdrum athlete had on Prep’s program. Pascoe completed an undefeated season to become only the GSL’s second three-time state champion.

After four tight wins against East Valley’s Josh Birt during the year, Pascoe took command early and won easily in their state finals match.

“He’s an upper-level kid and when it’s show time, he comes and competes,” said McLean.

Pascoe, who has signed to continue wrestling at the University of Nebraska, dealt with diabetes, which at times could throw his blood sugar levels out of whack and sap his energy.

Yet in three years for the Bullpups, he won all but two matches.

This year, Pascoe is ranked No. 1 nationally at his 189-pound weight class among high school wrestlers.

He’s been chosen to compete in the Dapper Dan, Pennsylvania vs. Team U.S.A. Classic in late March. In April, he’ll compete on the Dream Team All-Stars Classic in Minnesota.

“People wrestle three levels higher because they are in Travis’ weight,” said McLean. “He’s done that for a lot of kids in the area. He does things that are unbelievable. You get one like him in a lifetime, if you’re lucky.”

McLean not only lamented the loss of a great wrestler and friend when the curtain rang down on Pascoe’s career. When Pascoe moves to Lincoln to compete collegiately, the Bullpups coach loses something else.

“I lose my babysitter,” said McLean. “Who’s going to watch my kids?”