Prior to this season, Dolores High School sophomore Brandon Ward was somewhat of a question mark after an up and down freshman season.
Almost immediately however, the lanky 106-pounder put all questions to rest as he dominated throughout the year on his way to a 27-11 record and a regional championship.
Ward capped off his regional championship run with a 20-8 victory over Dove Creek High School's Colin Hobbs on Feb. 14.
Currently the fourth-ranked 106-pound wrestler in Class 2A, Ward will kick off his bid to become state champion with a matchup against Holyoke's Eric Rojo (23-8) on the afternoon of Feb. 19.
If Ward wins, he will wrestle against Rye High School's Colton Sims (12-18) or Calhan High School's Zach McCrary (23-16) on the morning of Feb. 20.
"I just have to wrestle my best and wrestle like I know how," said Ward, when asked about his plan entering state.
Off the mat
Favorite band: Guns 'N Roses
Favorite book: Where the Wild Things Are
Favorite movie: American Sniper
Favorite TV show: The Simpsons
Favorite team: Dallas Cowboys
Favorite athlete: Nolan Ryan
Dream job: Engineer
Historic dining partner: Nolan Ryan