Home

Cressley, Waltko Speak at Banquet

Clarion University wrestlers, Steven Cressley and Joe Waltko spoke briefly at an informal banquet held at the McCalmont Township Fire Hall in Anita on May 8, 2013 for all Punxsy wrestlers from the elementary through the varsity level.

Steven is a 2008 graduate of Punxsutawney Area High School and a PIAA state qualifier as a senior at 171 lbs. At Clarion he was an NCAA D-1 national qualifier in 2012. He was a Clarion University and PASC scholar athlete with a degree in Finance.

Joe is a 2009 graduate of North Allegheny High School and a 2009 PIAA AAA state champion at 130 lbs. He was a four-year starter at Clarion and a Clarion University
scholar athlete with a degree in Secondary Education.

Both wrestlers stressed how the discipline required for wrestling helps prepare you for life. "Fortune 500 ranks wrestlers number one," said Cressley, meaning that when employers see wrestling on a resume it goes a long way and gives them assurance that the prospective employee will understand what it takes to be a hard worker.

"You have to first set realistic, short term goals for yourself," stated Waltko when talking about how to become a better wrestler; especially for those that don't have a great deal of natural talent. Hard work and perserverance will pay-off to make you not only a better wrestler, but a better all-around person.

Both athletes shared their thoughts on why they feel wrestling is not only the best sport, but the toughest one as well.