Fauquier High School’s senior wrestler, Cole McAndrew, has reached a remarkable goal on the mats, achieving his 100th win while serving as team captain. McAndrew’s journey to 100 wins started when he was four years old when he found his deep passion and love for the sport.
For McAndrew, reaching 100 wins is more than just a number, it shows his years of being dedicated, hard-working and committed to the sport he loves deeply. “It symbolizes the commitment to the sport and I’ve been doing it for a long time, it means a lot to me,” McAndrew says. This long journey motivates him to continue pushing forward in wrestling, for himself and his team.
Over the years, McAndrew has learned valuable lessons on both victories and losses. He believes that no matter the opponent, the key to ending the match in success is giving everything he has on the mat. “It doesn’t matter who you’re up against or what you’re up against, you just have to give it your all,” he says. This mindset has helped him grow as both a competitor and a leader, earning him respect from his teammates and coaches.
One of McAndrew’s biggest influences in wrestling has been the relationship he’s built along the way. His coaches and teammates have played a major role in his continued love and dedication for the sport, creating a strong support system that has helped build his motivation. When it comes to McAndrew’s biggest supporters, he credits his parents and friends, saying, “Besides the sport, it means a great friendship and love for more family and support.” McAndrew also explains how his parents being there, discipline him and help him do better in the game. McAndrew explains, “Whenever my parents come to watch my match it puts pressure but also motivates me to do what’s best, so I can make them proud.”
Throughout his wrestling journey, McAndrew has earned multiple accomplishments, including becoming a state qualifier, serving as a team captain and reaching the 100-win milestone. However, he acknowledges that some of his greatest lessons have come from the matches he lost. He says wrestling is a demanding sport, but it challenges him and teaches him valuable lessons. “You’re going to learn some tough things. Wrestling is a hard sport, but it’ll teach you so many other things in life,” he says to advise other wrestlers.
After graduation McAndrew has chosen a path of service, supporting his nation by committing to join the United States Marine Corps. He will begin training on June 17, an important decision made to serve his country and find future career opportunities. “I’ve always felt like I needed to serve my country, and it opens up more job opportunities in the future,” McAndrew explains.
Although McAndrew’s time on his mat is coming to an end, he will prepare for more obstacles in the future. His legacy at Fauquier High School proves his dedication and leadership. His achievements on the wrestling mat and his commitment to constantly doing more will inspire countless others.
