Jake Varner (State College, Pa./Nittany Lion WC) has been named TheMat.com Wrestler of the Week for July 24-30.

Each week, TheMat.com will select an Athlete of the Week, based upon performance within wrestling for that week. The selection committee will consider any level of wrestling, from youth programs through the Senior level.

Varner earned praise from U.S. coaches for his efforts during training as he and his American freestyle teammates continue preparations for the Olympic Games.

Varner and the U.S. freestyle team is training in Minsk, Belarus this week before returning to London to make final preparations for the Olympics.

Varner, a 2011 World bronze medalist, will compete for the U.S. at 96 kg/211.5 lbs. on the final day of the Olympics on Aug. 12.

"Jake had a solid three days in London, and he is ready to get a couple of solid training cycles in this week in Belarus," U.S. National Coach Zeke Jones said. "His focus is good right now and he is taking care of business."

Varner was a two-time NCAA champion and four-time finalist for Iowa State. He is a native of Bakersfield, Calif.

Note: To nominate a wrestler for TheMat.com Wrestler of the Week, send the athlete's name, accomplishments for the week and career accomplishments to Craig Sesker at csesker@usawrestling.org