Russell Brinson/Photo
Members of the Pickens High School wrestling team work out on the new mat purchased with money they earned doing odd jobs over the summer.

PICKENS — “Hard work pays off.” Pickens High School wrestling coach Mark Barrett said it, and the 30 boys of the PHS wrestling team proved it by raking many yards, washing many cars, loading trucks to help a family move, washing farm fences and clearing cut trees to earn money for the program over the summer.

When the school budget had allotted only half the money needed to replace the old very worn wrestling floor mat, the boys were able to add their $5,000 to purchase the new mat now in use. Much-needed new uniforms for the varsity players were also purchased.

Barrett said this year’s squad is arguably the best in his 19 years as wrestling coach, as the Blue Flame are currently ranked fourth in the state. The team consists of boys grades 7–12. All totaled, the boys will compete in 40 matches before the season ends on February.

Five days a week after school the boys practice under the guidance of Barrett and assistant coaches Ryan Breedlove, Justin Stumbo and Chris Barrett. It is obvious that the boys believe that hard work pays off by the grimace on their faces as they compete and the smiles there as they score.