Parker Filius verbally commits to Purdue

It's been known for some time that Havre High's Parker Filius was going to wrestle for a big-time college program, the only thing that wasn't known was where. That was until the three-time state champion verbally committed to Purdue University Tuesday night.

Purdue, which is a member of the Big Ten Conference, was the final selection for Filius after much deliberation. The senior narrowed his choices this fall and after visiting a number of other schools, Filius chose to become a Boilermaker over North Carolina, Virginia Tech and Minnesota, among others.

"I chose Purdue because I have a good relationship with their coaching staff," Filius said. "And Kendrick Maple (2013 undefeated NCAA National Champion) is going to be in his first year coaching there and will be great workout partner and coach for me. I really liked the team and I felt I will fit in well as a student."

While there were many things that ultimately led Filius to choose the Boilermakers, one thing that he stressed was the level of competition, not only in the Big Ten, but on his own team.

"I'm extremely excited about the direction of the program," Filius said. "Purdue had the No. 6 recruiting class in the country and will have a good class to follow it. Purdue is also in the Big Ten and I will get to wrestle some of the best guys in the country throughout the season."

Filius, who is attempting, along with Jase Stokes, to become the first four-time champion in the history of Blue Pony wrestling, will also be looking to help HHS capture its fifth-consecutive state championship in February.

Now, that he has decided where he will wrestle in college, Filius said he can focus on all his efforts on his upcoming senior season.

"I originally was going to commit by October 10th," Filius said. "But ended up getting done early. It's a big relief because now, I don't have anything to worry about but improving my wrestling and getting ready for college."