By Ken Hansard
Buhler High wrestler Cruz Hershberger just wrapped up a career that included a lot of big milestones. Hershberger has wrestled since he was a fourth grader and has never failed to make it to state, whether in high school or with Kids’ Club. He has been an undefeated First-Team All-League nominee. As a junior on his way to a state runner-up finish, Cruz recorded his 100th career win in the semi-final match where he punched his ticket into the finals. As a senior, he finished with an impressive record of 36-4, culminating in another runner-up finish at the KSHSAA State Championships. He finished his career with 136 total wins, which works out to a remarkable average of 34 wins per year.
Along the way, Cruz used his considerable influence to help his coaching staff pass along the Crusader culture to other members of the team. “I saw a lot of mistakes get corrected, and I saw growth in everyone in the room, whether it was technical or mental. As a role model, I had to set a high standard in the room. And I give credit to our coaching staff. They helped drive the mentality that every wrestler needs to be great.”
Despite his considerable accomplishments, Hershberger would have truly liked to have tallied two more wins in his illustrious career, “My goal was winning a state title. I know at the end of the day, that’s probably everyone’s goal, but with the coaches I had and the mental drive that I possess, it’s hard not to think back on that.”
Cruz also played football for the Crusaders. He was a First-Team All-League and All-State selection at defensive end for the Crusaders, a perennial powerhouse that lost in the playoffs at sub-state. Following graduation from high school, Hershberger plans to enroll in welding school.
