Senior Wes Roberts looks to become OU’s next comeback star.
by Robert Przybylo
Coming back from a season-ending injury can be tough.
Try coming back from two.
OU senior wrestler Wes Roberts is looking to do just that this year.
Two years ago, in the first practice of the year, Roberts tore his ACL.
“It was just a freak accident,” Roberts said. “I had never been seriously injured in my career, so it took a while to get over.”
Roberts persevered and was having a successful season last year until another injury caused him to pack it in early.
“I tore my PCL (posterior cruciate ligament),” he said. “I put off surgery and just tried to rehab it. I was ready for the Big 12 championships. I did not have enough time to get back into shape, though.”
It’s a new season, and Roberts is optimistic.
“I am finally healthy,” he said. “This off-season was the best off-season I’ve had. I’m ready to get back out there.”
Roberts’ story has been a driving force for the OU wrestling team.
“How can you not be inspired by his story?” OU junior wrestler Justin Dyer said. “It’s such an incredible story, and he’s got such a great attitude.”
Assistant coach Jeremy Spates said he is looking to Roberts having a break out year.
“As long as he stays healthy, he’ll be fine,” Spates said. “He’s one of our leaders, and it’s good to have one of our leaders back.”
Physically, it’s tough to recover from the kind of injuries Rob-erts sustained in the last two seasons.
However, Roberts stressed the mental aspect of the recovery process.
“The second injury hurt more mentally,” Roberts said. “I was on top of my game at the time and had to start all over again. There were some questions of, ‘Why me?’ “
Roberts credits the support of teammates and coaches for his positive outlook.
“They have helped me tremendously,” Roberts said. “They keep me motivated and having fun. To me, that is something important for a team. A team that has more fun will have more success.”
Teaching and motivating are two things Roberts said he contributes to the team.
“I can influence the young guys,” he said. “They motivate me because I want to help them.”
For most wrestlers, the goal is an NCAA championship, but not for Roberts.
“I just want one whole season,” he said. “I want to be able to know how good I am and to be tested to my top ability. I want to have fun and wrestle the normal 40 matches. If I can do that, the season will be a success.”
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