Photo by Katelyn Coffey
Maize wrestler Braden Salsbury is hitting the mats for the last year of high school wrestling. Salsbury wrestles in the 165-pound weight class and has his eyes on the final tournament of the season, State. “It’s my last season so obviously the goal is to be on top of the podium.” In addition to being a state champion, Salsbury wants to step up as a leader for the team. “Individual success only lasts so long, but positively influencing my teammates-such as showing work ethic, character, and faith-is lifelong.”
Salsbury spoke highly of the team about the chances of winning state as a team as well. “The expectation is always to win a state title, and this year is no different. We have a very talented team and just need to put our heads down and take care of business.”
During the offseason, Salsbury spent time and efforts working on building strength and technique. Salsbury moved up two weight classes and knew going into the season, he would have to physically and mentally be prepared for what was to come. For technique, Salsbury worked on hand-fighting and scrambling, two areas Salsbury felt there could be improvement.
While Salsbury was a junior, he finished out the season with a fifth-place finish at state. Salsbury had tough competition during the regular season and with a record of 34-20 going into state, he seemed to be overlooked by much of the higher ranked competition.
Salsbury received a 4-year National Army ROTC Scholarship and plans to attend Oklahoma State University with plans to study Agricultural Systems Technology next fall. In addition to wrestling, Salsbury also participates in track and field, Teens at Teachers, NHS, FCA, and Younglife.
