Sports
Hot Shots: Cooper, Togher Share Top Winter Sports Athlete Honor
Providence teammates Edwin Cooper and Mike Togher capped remarkable runs with titles at the Class 3A Individual state wrestling tournament.
Edwin Cooper, Providence, senior, wrestling
* Cooper was the 2011 Class 3A state champion at 145 pounds.
* He was a four-time state finalist.
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* He was a two-time state champ and two-time state runner-up.
* He was the junior freestyle runner-up and cadet freestyle champ at the summer nationals in Fargo, N.D.
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* He became first wrestler to win four straight championships at the prestigious Dvorak tournament.
Edwin Cooper: In his own words"When I look back, I am glad I picked Providence Catholic. What I will take with me is that if you work hard, good things will happen.”
"Edwin is a special kind of athlete. I have never coached a student who was as motivated to win as Edwin.”
Personal“I’m not sure where I will be going to school, but I know that Providence Catholic has given me the tools to succeed," Cooper said. "I would like to thank my parents and coaches for all they’ve sacrificed to make me who I am.”
Mike Togher, Providence, senior, wrestling
Major accomplishments/awards* He was the 2011 Class 3A state champion at 135 pounds.
* He placed third in 2010 at the Virginia Beach Junior Nationals.
* He was a part of the Providence team that placed second in dual-team state finals as a freshman.
Mike Togher: In his own words"When I look back, I will be satisfied with myself because of all the hard work and dedication I put forth to complete my goals. My main goal/dream was to win state and I completed it.”
"It was awesome to watch Mike (Togher) grow through the years. He got to where he is now because of his work ethic. I was lucky to be able to coach Mike.”
PersonalTogher plans on wrestling at the NCAA Division I level but is still making up his mind on where he’ll wrestle.
“I admire many people in my life starting with my parents," he said. "They sacrifice a lot for me. The second person I admire is my brother. Ever since I was little, I always wanted to be like him. Last, I admire all of my coaches throughout the years.
"Wrestling has taught me how to be mentally and physically tough in situations, and my youth coaches, Marty and Billy Nowak, taught me manners and how to be respectful. My family and friends inspire me greatly.”
