Waller was named Most Outstanding Wrestler at the Jerry Brisco Challenge.
Strawberry Crest senior Chas Waller’s goal is to place at the FHSAA wrestling state championships, and he’s currently on a roll. Waller was recently named Most Outstanding Wrestler at the Sickles High School Jerry Brisco Challenge after finishing with a 5-0 individual record, helping the Chargers team go undefeated and place first overall.
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How did you feel going into that tournament?
I felt pretty good. I’ve had a couple of obstacles throughout the season but came back to practice. Had to get a clear head, clear mind and keep wrestling no matter what … I had a clear mind, went out there, had to do my thing and that’s what I did.
What obstacles did you have to overcome?
I kind of lacked a little bit of motivation. You’ve got to stay strong and keep going, keep moving forward. The more work you put into it, the more the payoff is.
As a senior, this is your last ride as a Charger. How far have you come since you started wrestling here?
I think I’ve come quite a long way. I’ve got my team to back me up no matter what. I’ve got a great coaching staff that’s always been there through the hard times. Without them, I don’t know if I would have been here today. It’s been a tough road. But I’ve always got them to back me up and keep me going.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned out there on the mats?
Brotherhood. Having the team behind you no matter what, win or loss, having the coaches right there to teach you not only through the sport … but also throughout life. They’ve taught me a lot of life lessons that I’ll keep with me forever.
What other sports do you play?
I just do wrestling right now. It’s a full-time job. It’s always been wrestling. College is my next step in life, so I’m just working on that and focusing on grades, schoolwork and what to do in my next chapter of life.
What’s your plan for college?
I want to go to and graduate from UF for dentistry.
What sport have you never tried but always wanted to?
I think I’m in my childhood dream. It’s always been wrestling. My parents were always a little skeptical of it. A couple of my family members were in wrestling when they were younger. It’s a tough sport. My dad was definitely nervous about it because there’s a lot of risks, injuries. I kept telling him, “Let’s go, let’s go” and I ended up starting at Brandon Wrestling Club … I think it’s an awesome sport.
How are you doing in the classroom? What’s your favorite subject?
I’ve got straight A’s right now. I’m dual enrolled at Hillsborough Community College. I’m just trying to get my free education as much as I can … probably my favorite (class), I’m really enjoying economics.
