Caleb MariakisNot much has gone as planned athletically for Caleb Mariakis, but the tribulations were put to rest this past weekend when the Ridgeland High School senior wrestler committed to West Virginia University.
Mariakis committed to the Mountaineers and new coach Sammie Henson on an official visit, capping a wild ride in which he has overcome a childhood illness and disappointment due to injury on the prep level.
“I’ve had a lot of catching up to do,” said Mariakis, who did not start wrestling until the sixth grade due to instances of “absence seizures” as a child. “I’ve known my goals and my potential even though I got a late start. Coach Henson and my dad have become close over the years, and he understands my best wrestling is still ahead.”
The seizures, which would come on randomly and last only seconds, usually go away in adulthood, and Caleb said he hasn’t had one in four years. He has, however, had to endure a separated shoulder after winning a region title as a sophomore and other nagging injuries that have kept him from achieving his goal of a state championship.
“It feels so good to get this done, and now I can concentrate on finishing my senior year undefeated and winning a state title,” he said. “I also plan on going to two national tournaments this fall, where I hope to finish in the top six and earn All-American status.”