Josiah Darnes, Caprock wrestling, Jr.
On the mat: Seeded third in the 285 lbs. weight class at the UIL District 2-5A Tournament, held last weekend at Tascosa High School Activities Center, Darnes captured two pinfalls to advance to the title match. In the 285 lbs. championship, Darnes handled Palo Duro’s Anvial Acosta via a 10-1 decision. Darnes’ dominant victory allowed the Caprock boys wrestling team to leapfrog Amarillo High and Dumas to capture a team championship in the tournament’s final moments.
Coach Chris Allen: “A year ago, (Darnes) wouldn’t have the discipline and might’ve tried to wait to force winning a match that could cost us losing the match. I was really proud to see the growth in him and (his ability) to be patient, hold the position and pick a spot by doing (what he did at the district tournament). He didn’t risk a loss and he ensured his team a win. That’s growth, and it follows our quote for this season, ‘the process is more important than the product.'”
Darnes: “This past weekend was great, honestly. My coaches and I talked about ‘advancing’ all week long, and I felt I succeeded in doing that. Wrestling for the first place medal was my goal going into the tournament, but when my teammates and coaches told me we could be district champs if I won, I knew I had to take care of business.”
About Darnes
Favorite band or musician: 50 Cent
Favorite social media platform: Instagram
Favorite athlete: Gable Stevenson
Bet you didn’t know: “I love, love, love eating Chicken Alfredo. I think it’s the best food ever.”
Parents: Rodney Darnes and Tanya Ballin.