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Crater star Webster headed for UO�s team By Frank Silow Shane Webster was recruited by some prestigious college wrestling programs. But when it came time to choose, the Crater Comets� two-time defending state champion decided to stay closer to home. Webster, a lifelong outdoorsman, said that played a part as he signed a letter of intent Tuesday to accept a full scholarship to attend the University of Oregon. "I was tempted by some of the other schools," admitted Webster, who was also recruited by Iowa State, Nebraska and Minnesota. "They�ve won more than Oregon. But when it came down to decision time, the proximity to his home turf tilted the balance to the Eugene school. "I love being in the country," said Webster. "And I love deer and elk hunting and any kind of fishing. The coaches at Oregon have the same type of lifestyle as me." Also, the presence on the Oregon squad of former Comet wrestlers Doug Lee and Tony Overstake along with Bend freshman Luke Larwin influenced Webster. Larwin was defeated by Webster in the Class 4A state finals last season, and the two have since become friends. "It�s kind of nice knowing people on the team," says Webster. "I�m comfortable with them. Also, they have a lot of good workout partners at my weight." Ferocious is the best way to describe Webster�s mat persona. "He has an attacking style," says Crater coach Greg Haga. "He�s very aggressive. He tends to wear his opponents down and beats on them. He never gives up a point. His relentless attack opens things up for him." Webster won the Class 4A state title at 152 pounds his sophomore year and completed an undefeated season as a junior with the 160-pound championship. The 18-year-old has a 78-3 record the past two years. Webster began wrestling as a 7-year-old in the junior Comet program. But prior to that, his dad had him playing youth basketball. "I liked to foul people � push and shove," says Webster. "So my dad said, �I�ll put you in something where you can be more violent.�" It turned out to be the right move. Reach reporter Frank Silow at 776-4480, or e-mail [email protected] Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2000 Mail Tribune, Inc.