Ponca City's Abram Arechiga: Blake Shepard Athlete of the Month – Presented by Darren Dyer OK Farm Bureau Insurance

Abram Arechiga represents the Ponca City Wildcats in both wrestling and football. Currently, the senior is wrestling in the 182 pound class and enjoying his final high school season competing.

Arechiga has been a wrestler for about five years, initially giving the sport a shot after his mother suggested it. He enjoys being a Wildcat and the legacy that come with his high school.

“My favorite thing about competing for my high school is representing Ponca City and following the tradition,” he said.

Arechiga is happy with the season’s progression so far as he continues to improve.

“This season has been okay team-wise but for me as an individual it has been great,” he said. “I’m getting better every day.”

Ponca City wrestling head coach Jared Wynn has seen firsthand the work and dedication Arechiga puts into his sport and in the classroom.

“Abram is a leader in and out of the room,” said Coach Wynn. “He leads by example by working hard in the classroom and practice. He is a great teammate and has grown so much since his freshman year. Abram continues to work hard to reach his goal of wrestling at the state tournament.”

He works towards achieving his goals and stays motivated by “buying in and being dedicated, coming to work every day and school as well.”

Arechiga credits the coaches he has had over the years as well as a friend of his with influencing him on and off the mat. He cites “every single one of my coaches from kids up and my buddy Lane Newlin,” as his role models.

After his time at Ponca City High is finished, Arechiga would like to continue wrestling if the opportunity arises.