Rivera named MVL wrestling champion
Coshocton High School senior Julian Rivera was named the Muskingum Valley League Wrestling Champion in the 285-weight class.
He started wrestling three years ago as a sophomore. “I got into the sport thanks to Troy Spang, a great family friend, who convinced me to try a ‘real man’s sport.’ I decided to give it a shot and I quickly fell in love with wrestling because of how physically demanding it was compared to other sports. Wrestling pushed me to my limits like nothing else and I was hooked.”
Rivera shared that wrestling has taught him many things. “I’ve learned patience, good sportsmanship and the value of hard work. I stand by the saying ‘Once you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy.’ The sport has shaped me in ways I never expected.”
One of his proudest moments was stepping onto the mat for his championship match. “The hardest part was getting into the right mindset – preparing for a battle against someone just as strong and determined as I was. But, when I pinned my opponent for the championship, the feeling was pure electricity.”
Becoming the MVL Champion has been his goal since he started wrestling. “Sharing the victory with my teammates and family made it even sweeter,” he said.
Sean Collins, CHS wrestling coach said Rivera has progressed quickly over the two and a half years. “He is always willing to put in the extra work, and has grown to become a leader on the wrestling team. He is very humble and coach-able. All of these factors have developed him into an excellent student-athlete.”
When he isn’t wrestling, Rivera enjoys volunteering with FCCLA, community service groups and helping at his church.
“Wrestling has taught me discipline, resilience, and mental toughness like nothing else. It pushes my limits, rewards hard work and creates lifelong bonds. If you want to challenge yourself and grow stronger, give it a try,” he said.
Rivera said, “I want to thank my family, especially my mom, who always supports me, no matter how far she has to drive. I also want to thank my girlfriend, Karma, for always being there for me, as well as my coaches and teammates for pushing me and believing in me.”
Category: High School, Sports
