Rodriguez, Christian CA: Path to Excellence

Practice, Time, & Dedication

By Bill X. Barron

While he comes from a rich family wrestling tradition – a father, six brothers, and a sister all competed – California’s Christian Rodriguez was at first unsure about his own commitment. “I saw everyone working so hard and knew it would take a lot of effort.”

Trained by brothers Alex and Dylan, and encouraged by his father Eddie to pursue his best, Christian found success early in his career with a district championship. Victory quickly altered his perspective. “I loved the rush of winning. I knew it would take more blood, sweat, and tears, but I now know that it’s worth the hard work.”

Six years later, Christian relates: “I tell those just beginning that it will take work to get good. But with practice, time, and dedication the work pays off in success.” Now one of the country’s top seniors at 182 pounds, he “goes wherever there is competition” in search of uncovering his new best.

Ranked #1 in California, Christian will compete this season for Clovis North High. Flo Wrestling ranks Rodriguez as Number 10 in the nation after he finished his 2017-18 junior year 3rd in California State, a Doc Buchanan finalist, Iron Man All-American, and with All-American honors for the third consecutive year at the NHSCA National Championships in Virginia Beach.

RMN’s Freak Show in Las Vegas, a preseason hothouse of competition, is “one tournament where I always know I will be challenged.” Twice a Freak Show champion, Christian also welcomes more competitors to challenge him at this November’s Monster Match in Denver. “RMN always makes every tournament a performance with lights, lasers, and smoke to hype everyone up.”

In his sophomore year, Christian verbally committed to Fresno State. “Fresno is home and the Fresno State wrestling team is like family. I am comfortable with coaches Troy Steiner and Izzy Silva. What’s better than wrestling at home?” At the higher level, Christian looks up to Bryce Meredith and Jordan Burroughs.

Christian also values Fresno State for its computer science program, as he aspires to study artificial intelligence and game design and plans to develop his own websites. “Wrestling has made me a better person, not just in body but in mind as well. It has taught me determination and focus. Going to college is important to me and my family; wrestling has provided a means to earn a scholarship.”