Hard work pays off for Goolsby
Lead Summary
By
Stephen Forsha-sforsha@gmail.com
Hillsboro senior Andrew Goolsby accomplished his goal of having the opportunity to wrestle in the Ohio High School Athletic Association State Wrestling tournaments this week, but getting there took lots of hard work and dedication of perfecting his craft on the mat.
Goolsby wrestled for the first time at the age of 5, but he said he wasn't serious about it until the 5th grade, where he took part in tournaments and got really into the sport in junior high.
"When I was in junior high, I got really interested in wrestling," the senior said. "I've grown up around the sport.
"I didn't do so well when I was younger, but in junior high I went to the district tournament. I remember it as a fun time, and I had good coaches in Coach Williamson and Coach Jones."
But his interest sparked from his father, Greg, as the son stepped into the footsteps of his father when he stepped onto the mat for the first time.
"My dad got me interested in it. He showed me the moves and he used to wrestle as well," Goolsby said. "He wrestled in the state tournament a couple times."
But being alone, only depending on yourself for each three minute period, is something that drives the 125-pound class Division II district champion.
"When I am out on the mat, I don't have to rely on anyone or a teammate to succeed," Goolsby said. "I enjoy the fact that all the hard work, heart and effort depends on your own success. That's another reason why I put in extra time this season, and I have been better for it."
Even though the sport has individual competition, Goolsby's favorite memories are ones with his teammates when they get to have two-day tournaments.
"I like hanging out with my teammates and meeting other wrestlers at the events. They become friends. I like the fact I get to see the different schools and see all the different styles I can learn from," Goolsby said.
Being a goal since he started high school, Goolsby knows the tournament is a higher level than he has been a part of, but he knows he belongs in the same group as all of the other state participants.
"I am glad for the opportunity to be a part of the whole experience," Goolsby said. "I have attended the event in the past, but now being a part of it, I don't really know what to think. I've put in a lot of hard work and now it has paid off for me. It is a different feeling, a great feeling, and all I can do is go out, do my best and go as far as I can in the tournament."
Sitting in the stands at previous tournaments, Goolsby wanted to be a part of the events. His season was very successful as he only lost three times all year, with his last loss coming in the second tournament of the season.
"This season has actually been better than I thought it would be. I've lived up to my own expectations I've set for myself. I just wanted to do my best.
"Winning districts was a bonus this year. I never thought I could do that. But I tried my hardest and it paid off."
The hard work did pay off as Goolsby not only won at districts, but won the SCOL and sectionals . In all three events Goolsby hasn't lost a single match, winning by pinfall, majority decision or by decision.
In practice Goolsby said without the help from Mason Hunick and Caleb West pushing him to become better it helped him get to this final step of his high school wrestling career.
"I know the state is different level than what I have seen so far, but I will give 100 percent this week and give it my best. All I can do is go all out and do the best I can," Goolsby said. "I just want to thank my family, my teammates and my coaches for all their help for getting me to this point. I also want to thank God for the strength to get here."
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