NAME: Cole Thomas
SCHOOL: Ryle High School
SPORT(S): Wrestling
GRADUATING YEAR: 2022
GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT: Winning three state titles; getting college scholarship to wrestle at the U. of Tennessee Chattanooga.
BIRTHDATE: 1/16/2004
HEIGHT: 5'6"
RESIDENCE: Walton, Ky.
PARENTS: Darren & Francine
BIGGEST INFLUENCE: "My parents."
FUTURE GOAL: Win SOCON's and place at NCAA Tournament
Ryle senior Cole Thomas has impressively already won three straight Kentucky state championships in varsity high school wrestling, and he is working on his fourth title this season. Ranked at the top of his weight class in Kentucky, Cole was the first wrestling state champion in Ryle high school history. Success on the mat started early -- as an eighth grader, Cole finished 27-8 and was regional runner-up, finishing third at state.
In his superlative career, Cole has 200+ career wins. He entered this season with 92 consecutive wins. He has won three regional titles, including his freshman year at 106 lbs., his sophomore year at 120 lbs. and last season as a junior in the 126 lb. weight class. He would go on to capture the state titles each year. He finished with an undefeated 38-0 last season with 26 pins.
Cole was named as the NKAC Most Outstanding Wrestler and Northern Kentucky's Wrestler of the Year as well as first team all-NKY by the Enquirer and the Wrestling Coaches Association.
A Dean's List student involved in community service, he also participated in track & field competition and he will wrestle next season at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga.
His favorite athlete is Georges St-Pierre, favorite entertainer is Will Ferrell, favorite movie is Warrior and most-like-to-meet is Joe Rogan.
COACH'S QUOTE – "Cole Thomas is Ryle's first 3 time state champion and he's working towards his 4th state title and has over 200 career wins. He is a true ambassador for the sport of wrestling for Ryle on and off the field."
— Tim Ruschell, Varsity Wrestling Coach.
|
