A gold medal, a picture on the wall, and eternal glory in the record books. These are a few of the highlights for earning a state championship. Senior Andrew Williams, a three time state champion wrestler, intends to add a fourth title to his impressive resume.

            “It’s not going to be easy since everyone knows who Andrew is and what he has done, but he knows how to win,” said Varsity wrestling Coach Doug Roper.

Scores can be awarded for an individual or for the team. There are different holds, violations, and positions used in a match. Each move is critical in points given, which add up to winning a match. In order to compete, two wrestlers must be in the same weight class. Williams has been improving his skills for 13 years, despite fluctuating weights. He has compiled a 158-15 record in his high school career in three different weight classes.

            Williams gives credit to the three Tabb coaches for his success. Coach Roper, Coach Strickland, and his father, Coach Williams, have had a huge influence on him.  Williams enjoys having his father as a coach, which most teenagers would not. He believes having him there has pushed his level of athleticism and improved his work ethic.

            “Right now I know there is pressure on me, but it hasn’t hit me yet,” said Senior Andrew Williams.

If Williams wins his fourth state championship, he will be the first from Tabb and the third from the Bay Rivers District to win four consecutive titles. Capturing the fourth title would help his impressive pedigree before competing in the college level.  Williams will be attending the University of Virginia next fall, and he is signed to the wrestling program coached by Steve Garland.

 “Wrestling will take you further than you would think,” Williams recalled the words of a former coach, after signing for the 2009-2010 college wrestling season.