Anne Kitchens: Staff Writer

With trademark yellow shoes and shining golden headgear, senior Sam Wagner stands out among his teammates as a second year varsity captain. Wagner’s wrestling career has been a legend ever since his early years. Affectionately dubbed “B-Wagg”, Sam inspires his teammates to excel, earning many compliments from his coaches.Coach Al Shuton says Wagner has an amazing work ethic, is a natural born leader, and is one of the hardest working kids he has ever worked with.

While wrestling is a significant part of Wagner’s fining qualities to the captain. In order to stay in shape during off-season, Wagner joined the US Paintball League, and enjoys the thrill and anticipation while on the “field of fire.” His impressive grades and fascinating extra-curricular talents make him a perfect prospect for colleges such as Pomona and Berkeley. He is interested in wrestling after high school, and possibly becoming an engineer.

His unwavering dedication in all areas of his life allows Wagner to be a top competitor and true role model. At one point, while trying to drop a weight class in order to compete in an upcoming duel, Wagner forced himself to run nine miles a day, sticking to a strict diet which allowed him little freedom. “The feeling that I get when my hand is raised at the end of the match justifies all of the back breaking agony and intense training that I go through.”