To be a state champion, it takes more than simply showing up for practice and having a good record. As Bixby High School wrestling Jersey Robb will explain, being ranked doesn’t guarantee your spot in the state tournament. You have to work for it and push yourself past the limits your body and mind have created for you. OWrestling.com had Robb ranked as the No. 44 pound-for-pound best wrestler in the state. Robb would face the No. 1 ranked wrestler in the state in Tate Picklo from Mustang.
“It feels good to be recognized but rankings are just a number. A number by your name doesn’t help you win matches,” said Robb. “That finals match was something I’d been looking forward to all year. The idea of facing one the best kids in the nation was really exciting. I felt really good going into it and felt I was wrestling very well. I was disappointed of the way we had to end the match though.”
Picklo suffered an injury and was forced to forfeit the match making the sophomore from Bixby High School the state champion at 195-pounds. It was a long journey from the age of six when he first stepped onto the mat to that moment. With an undefeated season under his belt and a state championship, the emotions for Robb were overwhelming.
“It felt amazing, I’ve worked harder than I ever have this year and I earned everything I accomplished,” said Robb.
Bixby wrestling has made strides in becoming one of the top programs in the state thanks to the efforts of guys like Robb. With two more years to of high school left, Robb is excited to continue building the program and turning Bixby into a powerhouse wrestling program.
“My goal for the next two years is to continue improving my wrestling and to win two more state titles. I also want to win a team dual title,” said Robb. “My team and my teammates mean everything to me. I could not of have come close to the level of success I achieved this year without the help of my coaches and my drill partners Jack Puckett and Isaac Gibson. We’re changing the culture of Bixby wrestling into one of winners and success.”
Robb said his father has been a huge role model on and off the mat.
“My dad has been my biggest influence for me and my biggest supporter. He’s helped me become the wrestler and person I am today,” Robb said.
After high school, Robb is looking forward to the opportunity to take his talent to the next level.
“I would like to compete at the collegiate level. I have the potential and the determination to make it and I’m sure I will,” Robb said.
Away from the mat, you can find Robb in the gym lifting weights or at home catching up on sleep.
