Wrestling is a grueling sport no matter what level of competition it is. The few who excel in the sport have put in hours of hard work that should not be taken for granted. Luckily for Rocklin high we now have an All-American wrestler– junior Brian Horn.

All-American is defined as being one of the best in the county for your sport. To become an All-American in wrestling, one has to place top eight at a nationally recognized tournament.

Over the weekend of April 8, 2016, Brian and a few other Rocklin High wrestlers attended 2016 Flo Reno Worlds Championships. This tournament is one of the biggest in the world, attracting athletes from all parts of the globe.

Brian Horn earned his title when he secured himself as the 8th place finisher at 170 pounds.

“Before my match I was more tired than anything. I was not very nervous, just focused on what I had to do,” said Brian.

Although Brian was the only one from Rocklin High School to place in the top eight, he couldn’t have done it without the support from his teammates, family and coaches.

“It was very helpful having a lot of people there supporting me. I always wrestle better when there is a large crowd, so when a lot of people are cheering for me, it gives me the motivation I need to win the match,” Brian said.

Rocklin High School has had growing success in athletics, and this just adds to its list of accomplishments.

During Brian’s postseason run, he became a Masters qualifier, and got to wrestle in the Stockton Arena on February 26-27, 2016. This accomplishment made him realize that he wanted to continue his wrestling career into the off season.

“Last season I qualified for Masters, and I was okay with that, but next year I am hoping to place at the state meet in March,” Brian said.

Brian knows, however, that it is not going to happen without a lot of hard work and dedication throughout the off season.

“I enjoy the test that these national tournaments bring, and I plan on doing a few smaller tournaments over the spring season, but now it is time to lift and get physically and mentally strong,” Brian said.

Brian adds this All-American award to his growing list of accolades, with, of course, some bragging rights.