During an unprecedented school year, with moments of uncertainty and flashes of normalcy, high school students were still able to excel at their favorite sports.

That is true for C.B. Aycock’s Omar Tucker, who is currently enjoying another great season on the wrestling mat.

“I had two friends that I call my brothers, and they told me to come in, so I just came in and fell in love with wrestling,” Tucker said.

The senior, who wrestles at the 138 weight class, injured his knee during his freshman year and was unable to wrestle, but when Tucker finally got onto the mat as a sophomore, he quickly soared.

He qualified for the state tournament as a sophomore and junior. This season, Tucker is currently 16-0 and has his sights set on winning a state championship. Tucker is one of three wrestlers who are currently undefeated.

Tucker said he likes the pressure of being undefeated.

“We work hard for it, and there’s a reason we’re undefeated,” Tucker said. “I don’t feel pressure because this is my third year, and I feel way more technical.

“My main goal is to capture a state title this year.”

Tucker said he had had an unforgettable experience wrestling for C.B. Aycock, and he credits former C.B. Aycock wrestler Tyler Hughes with helping him become the wrestler he is today.

“It’s been tough, but if you’re mentally strong and you want it, you’ll get it,” Tucker said. “I’m glad to be on the mat with my friends. Tyler helped me every day on the mat in the wrestling room to get better and better.”

Outside of school, Tucker has two jobs. He said it was difficult at times to find a balance between work, school, and sports, but over the past four years, he has developed a routine.

After graduating from high school, Tucker plans on attending college and majoring in criminal justice.

“I still make time for everything. I come to practice every day. You just have to get your stuff in order. It’s simple,” Tucker said.

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