Freshman Sarbo in the history books
Name: Matt Sarbo
School: Altoona Area
Age: 15
Grade: Freshman
Sport: Wrestling
Athlete of the week achievement: Sarbo became the first Altoona wrestler to win a PIAA Class 3A Northwest Regional championship as a freshman, claiming the 106-pound title with a fall in the final.
Season update: Sarbo carries a 30-5 record into the PIAA Championships, which begin Thursday
Coach Joel Gilbert’s quote: “He’s well deserving of the honors he’s received. He works year-round at the sport. He loves it, so he works hard at it.”
Favorite teacher: Mr. Church
Favorite subject: Reading
Favorite movie: Gladiator
Favorite food: Ravioli
Favorite music: Classic rock
Outside interests: Fly fishing
Favorite professional team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite college team: Penn State
Athlete most admired: Jason Nolf
Best athlete I ever competed against: Glendale’s Brock McMillen
Most influential person on my athletic career: Coach Gilbert and Young Guns Wrestling Club coaches
Proudest athletic achievement: Winning a PJW state title last season
How I got my start in wrestling: Altoona Beast Wrestling Club
Future goal: “I’d like to win a state title this season.”