By Ivy Knapp
Easton Peace is quickly making a name for himself on the wrestling mat. He started wrestling just last season after getting some encouragement from someone he was close with.
“I started wrestling last season, and my football coach encouraged me to try it,” Easton said.
What began as a suggestion turned into a challenge that he embraced with full force.
Easton competes in the 138-pound weight class, where speed, strength, and mental toughness are all put to the test. One of the things that keeps him coming back every day is the connection he has built with his teammates.
“I like the bond formed between teammates through the grind of the sport,” he said. Long practices and tough conditioning have helped create a culture where everyone pushes each other to be better.
One moment that stands out most to Easton this season came during a tournament match against an opponent who had beaten him before.
“My favorite match was against a kid from Muskogee during a tournament who had previously pinned me,” he said. That match represented growth and confidence, showing how much he’s developed since stepping on the mat for the first time.
Wrestling isn’t easy, and Easton admits the hardest part isn’t always physical. “The toughest part about wrestling is having the mentality to be great,” he said.
Staying mentally locked in day after day can be challenging, but he’s learned how to prepare himself. Before matches, Easton keeps it simple. “I usually listen to music to get myself pumped up,” he said.
This season, he’s also seen great improvement in his skill set. “I have gotten a lot better with taking shots and being confident this year,” Easton said.
The wrestling room culture plays a big role in that growth. “The team culture is to push each other and be the best wrestlers we can be,” he said.
Easton credits Coach Vashus as his biggest influence.
“Coach Vashus has been my biggest influence in improving,” he said.
Looking ahead, Easton’s goals are clear.
“My goal this season is to win a tournament, and my long-term goal is to be on the podium at state,” Easton said.
After graduation, he plans to continue both his education and wrestling at the college level.
