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These are five of the nine wrestlers heading to state competition this weekend. (Photo by Jacque Taylor)

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Senior grappler pins ambitions

     "I'm looking for a student athlete who can get it done in the classroom first. I want them to have a strong work ethic and a good personality. With our one-on-one attention, we believe we can turn athletes into national contenders. But we need them to want it!"

     These are the words of Dana College head wrestling coach Richard Fergola, posted on the university's web site.

     This statement holds a special meaning to Keaton Taylor, senior wrestler at Silver Lake High School, who just recently signed with Dana College for a wrestling scholarship.

     Taylor, who placed second at the Mid-East league in St. Mary's and third at regionals, began establishing his successful future in grade school.

     The first time Taylor wrestled was in third grade. He remarked that it was the power that won him over, and Brady LaMar, former Silver Lake wrestler, inspired him.

     After his first match, Taylor continued wrestling throughout grade school and finally entered junior high. He excelled immediately.

     "Keaton was a hard working boy that listened very well when he was in junior high just getting started. I saw championship qualities in him the very first time I met him," noted Harry LaMar, Silver Lake Junior/ Senior High School wrestling coach.

     What Taylor calls his best moment in wrestling occurred two years after he began training under Coach LaMar, when he placed fifth as a freshman at state.

     Taylor recalled, "I was one of the few."

     Taylor continued to place at state each year thereafter, earning sixth place as a sophomore and fourth as a junior. He is one of nine wrestlers competing at state wrestling this weekend.

     Because of his continuing success, Taylor was offered a $12,000 scholarship from Dana College. Noticing both the school's academic and athletic opportunities, Taylor signed with the Vikings.

     Dana College's wrestling program has seen much success over the past few years. In fact, just last year, the Nebraskan college placed first at the NAIA National Tournament. Taylor knew it would be a difficult task when he signed up.

     "It's going to be a lot of hard work. I'll have to do extra to be on varsity," affirmed Taylor.

     Coach LaMar is resolute in his confidence for the senior wrestler.

     "Keaton has become an all-around wrestler this year. His neutral technique is as good as anybody's I have ever coached. I think he will excel in college with his neutral skills. His bottom and top skills are both at a very high level right now for a high school kid. He has turned into the top wrestler in the state at his weight.

     "Keaton is a fierce competitor that really listens to what the coaches have to say. Both qualities will take him far on the mat and in life after sports," stated Coach LaMar.

     Taylor, also active in football and baseball, dropped a few hints on how to become a successful athlete.

     "Work hard every practice. Set goals."

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