Representing the Southeast Region, Ben Connell amassed a career record of 146-5, including 94 falls, en route to capturing four state titles for Lugoff-Elgin High School. Following the 2000 season, he was named South Carolina's "Mr. Wrestling" and finished second in the state's Athlete of the Decade vote.

Connell finished first at the NHSCA national tournament and was named a member of Wrestling USA's Dream Team.

On the gridiron, Connell excelled as an All-State fullback and linebacker as well. Nationally, he was one of eight finalists for the Wendy's High School Heisman and has been featured in Sports Illustrated's "Faces in the Crowd."

Carrying a 3.84 GPA, Connell received Academic All-America and All-State honors. He is an active member of Beta Club, Arrow of Light, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Boy Scouts and SADD.

In addition, he is the president of his church's Young Men Club and volunteers with special needs and autistic children.

Connell has signed to wrestle for the University of Oklahoma.