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MITCHELL, S.D. (AP) A Wagner High School wrestler is one of four athletes from around the nation to be nominated for an ESPY award from ESPN, the cable television sports network.

Last year, Ryan Kocer (KOH'-chur) had his left leg amputated below the knee after a farm accident.

Kocer, who was a three-time state champion wrestler, returned to the mat after the amputation and won fourth place in the 152-pound division at the South Dakota Class B state wrestling tournament.

Wrestlers cannot compete with a prosthesis but they may wrestle with just one leg.

He said he is "really excited" about the nomination in the category "Best Male Athlete with a Disability." The awards will be made July 16, and the ceremony airs on July 20.

Information from: The Daily Republic, http://www.mitchellrepublic.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-05-08 0555CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list