Lindenwood University Athletics

State Representative Joe Smith (R-St. Charles County) recently honored members of two athletic programs at Lindenwood University. Rep. Smith presented House Resolutions recognizing the achievements of Joe Parisi, coach of the Lindenwood wrestling team, and the success of the Lindenwood sports shooting team. 

The resolution presented by Rep. Smith to Joe Parisi honors the coach for his impressive record of achievement. Parisi led the Lindenwood University wrestling program to five NAIA National Championships and three National Dual Championships in the past 10 years. He also guided the program to two NAIA National Runner-Ups. Coach Parisi recently was selected as one of thirty wrestling coaches to attend the first-ever College Coaches Leadership Academy and was recognized as one of the event’s Legendary Coaches. 

“Coach Parisi has distinguished himself not only as a winner who has dominated his sport on the NAIA level, but also as an individual of the highest character. He is the kind of person who makes certain his athletes are students first,” said Rep. Smith, “We are fortunate to have such an outstanding mentor who is giving his athletes the tools to not only win on the wrestling mat but also to succeed in all aspects of life.” 

The other resolution presented by Rep. Smith recognizes the accomplishments of the Lindenwood University sports shooting team. The team won the 41st annual Association of College Unions International Clay Target Tournament by the largest margin in history in March of this year at facilities in San Antonio, Texas. Team members took first place in the NSSA Sporting Clay course, International Trap, Five-Stand Sporting Clay and International Skeet team competitions. The team also finished second in the American Trap competition. Several members of the team took home individual honors including both the Men’s and Ladies’ Overall Championships. 

“The sports shooting team has represented Lindenwood University with dignity and honor and their level of competitive success has been at a record-breaking level. They are exemplary representatives of the university and we are all so very proud of what they have accomplished,” said Rep. Smith. 

Rep. Smith presented both resolutions with Lindenwood University President Jim Evans on Wednesday, September 23.