Ocho: the Owasso Wrestling Team’s Favorite Member
By Katelyn Fisher
The Owasso boys wrestling program has a special needs member by the name of Ocho, a lively guy who enjoys being a part of the team. Ocho has been with the wrestlers for two years now and was recently given the title: director of heavyweight operations. He loves being so involved with the team and never forgets to bring his outgoing personality and contagious smile to all the events and practices.
When describing Ocho, head coach Kyle Ryan exclaims, “He's the happiest guy I know!”
The wrestlers have accepted him onto their team and grown fond of his presence at each and every event. Whether it be duals, tournaments or just regular practices, Ocho makes sure he is always in attendance. He assists his team during the duals and tournaments by yelling out words of advice or motivational phrases to help them through the match.
Coach Ryan explains, “He comes in every day, no matter if he's feeling bad, if it's raining, sunshine, snow, blizzard, [the] world's about to end. He comes in there with a positive attitude, happy to be there with a smile on his face.”
Photo of Ocho (wearing red) coaching, taken by Katelyn Fisher
No matter the situation, Ocho remains optimistic and upbeat, often cheering up the team after a tough loss or hard practice. Ocho serves as a reminder to the wrestlers that even when things are going wrong, there is a brighter side to every situation, and there is always something to smile about. Regardless of if they win or lose, he keeps his head up and hopes high for the next event.
Picture of Ocho celebrating after a victory
“I think a lot of us can learn from that,” Coach Ryan states when referring to Ocho’s optimistic attitude. “Instead of finding excuses for why things are going wrong, we find reasons why things are going right and get excited about it, and if they're not going right, find a way to make it right.”
Not only do the members of the team enjoy having him around, but Ocho loves being constantly surrounded by his team and his friends. Being a part of the wrestling team allows Ocho to participate in a school sport that he personally enjoys. His pure happiness and excitement for the sport are clearly showcased when you see him at the duals; he stands up and cheers, keeps a vibrant smile on his face for the majority of the matches, coaches the wrestlers with encouraging words and congratulates them all after victory.
When asked what he likes best about the team, Ocho points at the team and exclaims, “Seeing you guys!”