| My name is Cael Staggs, and I’m a junior at McQueen High School. I started wrestling when I was five years old. The first club I joined was Northwest Nights, where I wrestled for a few years before it became Nevada Elite—the team I’m still part of today. Since then, I’ve competed across the United States and even at the Tallin Open in Estonia. Wrestling has helped me grow into a well-rounded person. The people and friends I’ve met along the way have played a huge part in my growth. Many of my wins come from their support—from my partners, coaches, and everyone who has pushed me to get better. |
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| Throughout my wrestling journey, one person has never let me down: my dad. Through every high and low, he’s always been in my corner, helping me become who I am today. Coach Sully, Coach Mumm, and Coach Sorgoni (from Northwest Nights/NV Elite), along with my dad, have all played a huge role in my growth. I am beyond grateful for the hundreds of hours they have put into my training. Many of my wins come from their support—from my partners, coaches, and everyone who has pushed me to get better. |
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| Through my journey with Jesus, I’ve found an inspiring verse that connects deeply with wrestling—Ephesians 6:12: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” This verse reminds me that every single struggle I face, whether on the mat or in life, is part of a greater spiritual battle. It helps me remember that I’m not just fighting for wins, but for something bigger—to be a part of God’s army. Wrestling has taught me discipline and perseverance, but my faith has shown me my true purpose. |
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| I also have the honor of competing for McQueen High School on the JROTC Raider Team. We compete against other schools in a variety of events that test our endurance, physical strength, and teamwork. JROTC has taught me the importance of leadership, discipline, and working hard for something bigger than myself—lessons that connect directly to wrestling and life. |
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| Throughout my life, I’ve also spent a lot of time hunting and fishing. These activities are not only a huge part of my life, but they are also my passion and who I am outside of wrestling. Being outdoors gives me peace and balance; it’s where I can step away from everything and refocus. I’ve learned patience, responsibility, and respect for nature through these experiences. When I get the pleasure of teaching others, I get to pass on what I’ve learned—and in the process, I keep learning myself. Teaching others reminds me of the fundamentals, both in the outdoors and in wrestling. It’s helped me grow not only as an athlete, but as a person who values hard work, humility, and helping others improve. |
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| Looking back on my journey, I realize that wrestling is not about winning matches; it’s about growing as a person. The lessons I’ve learned from my dad, coaches, teammates, and faith have shaped me into the person I am on and off the mat. Whether I’m competing or training, I want to keep building on what I’ve learned—to work hard, stay humble, and use every experience to become the best version of myself. |
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