Valor Buck has committed to wrestle at the United States Air Force Academy. The Fight’n Friars senior said, “I chose the Air Force Academy because I’ve always had a desire to serve my country and it has also been a dream of mine since I was little to wrestle at the Division 1 level.”
He continued, “I was attracted to the wrestling program specifically because of their great coaching staff and the values that the school holds. I believe that attending the USAFA will best help me grow as a wrestler and as a God-fearing man.”
Buck had previously committed to Cal State Bakersfield but when the opportunity presented to fulfill a lifelong dream, he couldn’t pass it up. He shared, “I want to thank CSUB and the coaching staff for all they’ve done for me, believing in me and giving me the opportunity to compete at the next level. I am extremely grateful.”
A four-year varsity letterman for Servite, Buck won individual Trinity League, CIF and Masters Championships at 170lbs his senior season as well as being named Masters Upper Weight MVP and placing 5th at the CIF State Tournament. Throughout this high school career he tallied 119 wins finishing as a 3x league placer, 2x CIF placer, 2x Masters placer and 2x State placer. In addition, he was a 2x all-star while earning 1st Team All-Orange County recognition twice. He was also a member of the 2019 squad that won Servite’s first Masters Championship in school history as well as Trinity League and two CIF-SS titles.
Coach Alan Clinton shared, “Valor is so well-deserving of this fantastic opportunity. He has put in years of hard work and commitment to his craft, making countless sacrifices to achieve his goals. He is an incredible young man and true Fight’n Friar. The entire program is so proud of what he has earned and can’t wait to cheer him on as he battles at the next level.”
Buck, who plans to study aeronautical engineering at Air Force, has been involved with judo in addition to wrestling at Servite while also volunteering with Team Credo and the Faley Games.
Buck is the second wrestler from the talented senior class to make his college commitment, with more expected to follow, joining Josh Medina who is headed to Cal Poly SLO.
In closing Buck shared, “Mom and Dad, thank you for everything. I am eternally grateful for the time, effort, dedication, and love you put into me since I was a child. I love you both endlessly. Coach Clinton, you have been my mentor these past four years and I have learned so much under you. I am grateful for the time we’ve shared. Coach Tony and Coach Joe, as much as I have hated y’all for pushing me beyond my breaking points, I thank you both for making me the wrestler I am today. The after practice practices, the weekend runs, and the holiday workouts have not only molded me into this wrestler but the man I hope you are proud of. I would be nowhere without you guys.”
He went onto say, “Next, to my boys, my brothers, I love you all. Each and every one of you guys have impacted my life in an unforgettable way. I will never forget this brotherhood. I cannot wait to see where life takes all of you. Lastly, Tristen, my brother since ‘09, your mind is incredible. You can and will achieve anything you set your mind to. Thank you for pushing me and being there always. Your future is bright, do not forget. Again, thank you all for supporting and being a part of this journey. God bless. Fly high.”
Servite would like to congratulate Valor on this incredible achievement and wish him the best!
