Championship wrestling at the Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) has a long and storied history. Since its inception in 1961 with seven boys, no budget and two coaches, wrestling has grown to be an integral part of the school’s legacy. And with this year’s South Central Association for Schools for the Blind (SCASB) Wrestling Tournament, that legacy has only continued to grow!

"Wrestling is a mainstay of our school’s rich history and a testament to the resilience and determination of our students,” explained Alan Nunn, Principal, ASB. “Since 1961, this program has not only fostered athletic excellence but also instilled lifelong values like humility, sportsmanship, and teamwork. With each victory, our wrestlers continue to prove that success is built on perseverance and the courage to rise to any challenge."

SCASB

In late January, the ASB Wrestling Team traveled to Muskogee, Oklahoma, to clinch their 21st consecutive victory in the annual SCASB wrestling competition. From January 23 to 26, they took on teams from across the Southeast, including the Mississippi School for the Blind, Oklahoma School for the Blind, and Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

“It is an honor to be a part of this team and compete in wrestling,” commented Chris Weaver, Junior, ASB. “I come from a family that has been wrestling for generations. My dad was a wrestler and I’m proud that I can continue the legacy. When you’re able to compete at this level in a sport like wrestling, it teaches you how to stay humble and have great sportsmanship. You can be a big, tough guy and still lose. If you have a big ego, that affects the team. That awareness helps you to develop into the person you want to become in the future.”

During this year’s tournament, ASB celebrated a resounding victory with a score of 130. They were followed by Oklahoma School for the Blind with a score of 118, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired with a score of 84, and Mississippi School for the Blind with a score of 20.

Everyone at the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind is extremely proud of the ASB Wrestling Team and their 21-year winning streak. “Their incredible achievement exemplifies the hard work, dedication and championship mindset that defines our student-athletes,” commented Dennis Gilliam, Ed.D., President, Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind. “Additionally, they are remarkable individuals and I know that they will continue to shine, on and off the mat, for a lifetime of limitless success.”