COVINGTON – Caleb Ryman, a very talented Buccaneer wrestler in the history of the program, set himself up to extend his wrestling career at the collegiate level by committing to Otterbein University.
“I chose this college because it is a good distance from home,” explained Ryman, who also plans on majoring in Exercise Science. “I connected well with the wrestling team and really like the coach (Brent Rastetter). They have a strong exercise science program.”
Caleb is the son of James Ryman and April Bixler, who will have ideal locations to continue watching their son wrestle in college.
“I looked at the schedule and it’s pretty good,” said James Ryman, Caleb’s dad. “I’ll have to take some vacations, but it will be good getting to watch him.”
Covington’s head wrestling coach, Eric Vanderhorst, is also excited that Caleb is progressing to the college level.
“We are all really proud of Caleb and happy for him signing with Otterbein,” Vanderhorst said. “He had a lot of schools interested in him, and I know it was a tough decision, but with his major in Exercise Science and the option to get additional assistance towards a masters degree later on down the line, it ended up being the best choice for him”
This outstanding wrestler and student, who has a 3.4 GPA, plans on performing at the outstanding level he excelled in high school.
“My goal is to keep improving as a wrestler and compete at a high level,” said Caleb. “Also, I plan on doing well in school with Exercise Science and working toward a career in strength and conditioning.”
Caleb’s hard work and determination established him as one of the premier wrestlers at Covington. Ryman was a four-time state qualifier, a two time state placer and set the program’s record with 55 wins in his senior year. He also accumulated 191 wins throughout his high school career, which is the fourth best in the history of the program.
“Caleb had such a great impact on our program and brought a lot of success,” said Vanderhorst. “We really just wish him the best.”
Ryman is very thankful for the coaching staff he had throughout his time in Covington and how his family and friends helped him improve.
“I have had a lot of support from my family, friends, and my coaches,” said Caleb. “They have all pushed me to keep improving and get where I am today.”
Caleb has less than a month left to graduate at Covington, and yet, he will continue working hard to put himself in position for success at Otterbein.
“I’m excited for this next step (at Otterbein),” he said. “I’m just ready to keep working and improving at the next level.”
Caleb Ryman is a great person, a great student, and a great wrestler.
