Those who aspire to be champions face two types of challenges along the way. First the mountain to climb to reach the top for the first time, and then the pressure to repeat that success.
Columbus East High School seniors Cayden Rooks and Nick South have experienced both obstacles. And now, in both ways, they have proven their championship mettle.
The teammates, who will wrestle for Indiana University next season, claimed their second individual state titles in the IHSAA Wrestling State Finals on Feb. 16 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Rooks won the 138-pound weight class and South the 170-pound division.
They did more than just win, though. They demonstrated that the combination of talent, determination and hard work is a recipe for success, and provided a great example for other local wrestlers.
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What they did was remarkable. They entered the year as favored contenders for the titles, and faced best efforts all season from competitors.
South won the 160-pound title last year. Rooks won the 120-pound title two years ago and was state runner-up in the 126-pound division last season.
Faced with their own high expectations and best efforts from opponents, South conquered all challenges for an undefeated, 44-0 season, and Rooks posted a sterling 43-1 mark en route to the title. Their efforts helped East to a fifth-place finish in the process.
Their accomplishments are something for which the community can be proud.
