Battani changes his mind, commits to Iowa State

The University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse may now consider Tate Battani as "the one that got away."

The team that got him? Iowa State.

Battani, a two-time Iowa high school state championships medalist, had signed a letter of intent to wrestle at UW-La Crosse in April ... but apparently changed his mind, and has now committed to become an Iowa State Cyclone, according to multiple media reports.

Battani, a Ballard High School senior, announced his decision on Twitter: "After further consideration I am proud to announce that I will continue my academic and athletic career at Iowa State University!"

With the change, Battani will continue his wrestling career in-state, close to home (Ballard High is located in Huxley, Iowa, just south of Ames, home to Iowa State) ... and in NCAA Division I. (UW-La Crosse competes in NCAA Division III.)

In Battani, the Cyclones are getting a four-time Iowa state championships qualifier and two-time medalist. This past season, he placed third at state at 160 pounds in Class 2A and was named to the Raccoon River All-Conference team as a senior. Battani concluded his prep career with a 48-8 overall record.

Battani has also made a name for himself beyond traditional folkstyle. He placed second at the Iowa Junior freestyle state tournament and first in Greco-Roman at 170 pounds. He also won the Junior Freestyle Northern Plains Regional at 170.

Battani is expected to wrestle at either 165 or 174 pounds for the Cyclones.