Fish redefines wrestling term

By Traci Hurless The Arbiter

November 15, 2007

Boise, ID (CSTV U-WIRE) -- In the wrestling world, the word 'fish' is defined as having a lack of talent.But at Boise State, it is beginning to take on a whole new meaning.

Junior wrestler Cory Fish has proven the opposite. At 133 pounds, he finished second Nov.10 at the annual Cowboy Open in Laramie, Wyo. Posting a 19-14 overall record last year at 125 pounds, his best finishes were at the Cowboy Open where he placed third in the 20 and under age group and fifth at the Pacific 10 Conference Championships.

"It was rough trying to make the 125 weight class," Fish said. "I feel a lot more comfortable at this weight."

It takes dedication and practice to compete at the collegiate level. Fish has shown his commitment to the sport, having wrestled since the age of four. Wrestling was a natural progression for Fish, since his father wrestled in high school and taught him the ways of the mat.

Many athletes say the competitive aspect of their sport is what appeals to them most. Fish is no different.

"When you win, it's a big payoff because it's everything you worked for," Fish said. "(Wrestling) is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do."

Fish has set high goals for himself in his third year of college wrestling. He aspires to be an All American by the end of the season and place in the top three of the Pac 10.

"Being that it's the beginning of the season," Fish said. "I want to try to improve as much as I possibly can and try to peak at the national tournament."

Though confident in his own abilities, Fish also sees a lot of potential for this year's team.

"We've got some young kids," Fish said. "But we've got some really tough kids that are ready to go this year."

After winning two state championships at University High School in Spokane, Wash., he wanted to go to a college with a tradition of winning. BSU provided that for him.

"I really like the city also," Fish said. "It's nice and it's close to home."

When it comes to the wrestling season, there isn't much time for anything but practice and schoolwork. In what little free time he does have, Fish enjoys being the best ping pong player he knows and playing racquetball with his friends.

"I pretty much dominate everyone at my house (at ping pong)," Fish said.

The young wrestler is doing all he can to redefine the term "fish" in the wrestling world. With his strong will and desire to be the best, Fish is well on his way to doing just that.