SW's Delaney owning the mat at The Citadel

From All-American to national champion. That’s the ambitious plan Odie Delaney has set for himself.

And why not?

In two years at The Citadel, the former South Walton wrestling star has justified setting his sights high. Most recently, his expectations were buoyed by winning the heavyweight crowns at the All-Academy Championships and the Southern Conference tournament. It was his second straight SoCon title after claiming the 197-pound championship last season.

“It was awesome, but I guess it wasn’t as much of a thrill as last year because I’ve got bigger goals,” Delaney said.

Those bigger goals start with attaining All-American status at the NCAA Wrestling Championships next week. To do it, the 2007 Daily News Wrestler of the Year will have to finish in the top eight in his heavyweight division.

Delaney was bounced last year from college wrestling’s grandest stage after two straight losses. He admitted to being overwhelmed and is much more confident now that he knows what’s in store.

“I won’t be crowd-stunned,” Delaney said. “The bigness of it isn’t going to intimidate me this time.”

It will be Delaney’s last appearance in the national tourney for at least two years. He’s decided to redshirt next season in hopes of packing on another 20 to 30 pounds to make his body more suitable for the heavyweight division. He weighs 231 pounds right now, extremely light in comparison to opponents who tip the scales in the direction of 300 pounds.

And yet, Delaney has posted a team-best 26 wins against 11 losses this season, with 15 of his victories coming via pin. If he can transform his physique, he believes he’ll have a shot at ultimate glory.

“I think I’ll really be able to go after that national title,” Delaney said.

Delaney captured the All-Academy title by pulling a 3-0 upset win over Virginia Military Institute’s Josh Vine, who had beaten Delaney earlier in the season and was undefeated at the time. He won the SoCon championship as a third seed, edging UNC Greensboro’s Peter Sturgeon 3-1.

Now, he’s gunning to become an All-American at the NCAA Championships.

South Walton wrestling coach Carey Nick wouldn’t doubt him.

 “I always saw Odie’s perseverance,” Nick said. “He kept getting better and wanted to get better. He ate, drank and slept wrestling.”