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Washington High School senior Christian Price was facing a decision as his graduation drew closer. He could join the military, join the workforce or continue his career on the wrestling mat in college. In the end, the choice was simple.

“I’m not finished with wrestling just yet and I wanted to keep going,” Price said of his decision to accept a scholarship offer from Gardner-Webb University in the western North Carolina town of Boiling Springs. “I liked the campus because it wasn’t too big, and the wrestling program is a good fit for me. I feel like I have more wrestling in me and I’m excited for the opportunity.”

Price was a two-time East Regional champion, which meant a pair of trips to the state tournament in Greensboro. He wrestled in the 106 lb. division his first three years before moving up to the 120 lb. class for his senior year.
“His progress is really impressive because he never wrestled until he got here (to WHS) as a freshman,’ coach Chris Penhollow said. “I had him in P.E. and encouraged him to try. He was a backup his freshman year while he was learning and has improved every year since. I’m glad he took advantage of this opportunity, because the potential is there for even more improvement.”

Price was one of four senior starters for a Pam Pack squad that came within one match of winning the East regional team title and one of three who will wrestle in college. He also was one of three WHS wrestlers to collect their 100th career victory this season.

“That’s definitely one of the highlights of my time here,” Price said. “Wresting at the state meet with all the mats going at the same time with a bunch of people in the stands was also a lot of fun. I’ve also learned to take practice more seriously and winning has helped my confidence. College wrestling will be a challenge, but I’m looking forward to it.”