By Michael Moroney ’13
THE ROUNDUP

Brophy varsity wrestler Marshall Varner ’13 displays an aggressive and ferocious attitude on the mat.

His innate ability last year gained him a top place in the state as a freshman.

He said his goal is to win the individual state championship this year after finishing fifth at the state tournament last year in the 140-pound weight class.

There is confidence and hype surrounding Varner this year with the possible goal of winning state although he is now in the 145-pound weight class.

“Our goal is for (Varner) to win a state title this year, and the long range goal is for him to become a three time state champion,” said head coach Mr. Brad Frank. “He definitely has the tools and desire to accomplish this.”

Last year, he medaled in every tournament he participated in as well as winning the Buckeye Tournament in his weight class.

Varner has also been victorious at the national level by getting fifth place at the Nuway Southwest Kickoff Classic in Las Vegas in October, wrestling in the 148-pound weight class although it was an open tournament and not affiliated with Brophy.

“I want to see the team win the state title because I think (Mr. Frank) deserves it,” said Varner about his confidence in the team. “I honestly think we can win it this year, but we are going to need some guys to step up.”’

Teammates of Varner’s voted him captain for the season, unheard of for a sophomore.

Mr. Frank said this shows that Varner’s teammates believe he can help them grow as wrestlers.

“He knows a lot about wrestling and has shown a willingness to teach what he knows to his teammates to make them better,” Mr. Frank said.

College wrestling is certainly feasible for Varner, considering his incredible success at the state and national levels in high school.

According to Mr. Frank, he currently has no specific school in mind, but his options are definitely open.