Brian Bland is a senior wrestler at Fauquier High School (FHS). Bland got his 100th win over the weekend of January 16-19, 2026 at the in school wrestling showcase against Liberty High School. As a reward, Bland got a 100th win belt and poster, many people were there cheering as he went onto the mat to start the match. When the match started Bland stared at his opponent waiting for him to make a move, rushing him and taking him down to the mat in seconds helping his team secure the 56-16 win.
Before Bland’s time of joining the wrestling team he sent a text prior asking his football coach if he should even try out. Mistakenly, Bland sent the text to the wrong phone number and instead of receiving no response he got a pleasant text back saying, “I’m not the person you’re looking for, but you should definitely join it,” and “Go out there and have fun.” For him, it felt as if that text was a sign, so he made his final decision and tried out.
During Bland’s first year of wrestling he dealt with mental doubt. He wondered why he had even a thought of joining the team. “My first year I was regretting it, wondering, why did I ever do this? Why would I ever come [to try out]? I didn’t think it was worth it,” Bland expressed. These thoughts constantly made him anxious and worried about his place on the team. But with hope he made sure to not let this stop him and remembered his capabilities on the mat that he practiced and sharpened everyday.
As the season went on, Bland slowly began to see improvement. The long practices, early mornings and physically demanding matches started to feel rewarding instead of overwhelming. What once felt uncomfortable became part of his routine. He began building confidence not only in his skills but his mindset. One of the biggest challenges he faced came when he lost in regionals right before the state tournament. “The loss was very difficult, especially being so close to advancing further,” he remembered. However, instead of letting it define him, he bounced back from that tough situation. “Instead of letting it define me I’ll use it as motivation to improve.”
After reaching his 100th win, he describes it as an accomplishment and a part of a larger process. “It wasn't much of a surprise to me, but It was a big accomplishment. It was part of the process I worked for [during] the past few years. I never expected to make a hundred wins.” he expressed. For Bland, wrestling has become more than just matches and medals. He enjoys the bond between him and his teammates saying “[my favorite part of this is] the team aspect, team meals, dodgeball games and the hotel rooms.” The bond built with teammates helped him push through the difficult times he wanted questioned. He also credits his biggest supporters for who he is today. “Definitely coach Bobby. Coach Bobby is the reason why I started believing in Christ, and that's a big thing to me. He's pushed me to become a better man and person and has shaped me in every way.”
Now as a senior, Bland offers advice to anyone thinking about joining, saying “Just go out and have fun. You go through so many hardships. My first year I was considering it but now, four years later, I'm like this was worth it, it was for the better.” His advice comes from personal experiences, as he understands how difficult the beginning can feel; he knows that the early struggles can make anyone question their decision. However, he believes pushing through those moments is what makes the journey meaningful.
