Two young Owensboro wrestlers brought home hardware from their state tournament over the weekend.
Seven-year-old Jaxon Aull made an immediate impact in his first appearance at the state level, finishing with a perfect 3-0 record to claim a championship. Aull qualified for state after going undefeated at regionals, an achievement that capped just his second year in the sport.
Competing at 39 pounds, Aull handed his championship opponent his first loss of the season.
“Awesome,” Aull said when asked how it felt to win his first state title.
Aull, who attends Owensboro Catholic Elementary, said preparation for the tournament centered on repetition and discipline.
“Lots of practice on my moves,” he said.
His approach on the mat was simple but focused.
“Be smart, listen to coach, and be aggressive,” Aull said.
Despite his young age, Aull already has his sights set on future success.
“Win state again,” he said.
Eight-year-old Gus Murphy also delivered a standout performance, earning a third-place finish in the 8U 56-pound division.
Murphy qualified for the state tournament by winning his regional bracket. At state, he battled through a large field of 36 wrestlers, posting a 6-1 record. Three of his victories came by pin.
Murphy said the result validated months of effort.
“It feels good. It makes all the hard practices worth it,” he said.
His preparation extended well beyond the wrestling room.
“I had to watch my weight, work hard at practice, and never go easy,” Murphy said. “I ran a mile every day Monday through Friday. That helps me make it through all three periods.”
Murphy trains year-round, practicing four days a week while competing nearly every weekend during the season. This year alone, he wrestled more than 100 matches. In addition to working with the Aces Wrestling Club in Owensboro, Murphy also trains in Evansville, traveling regularly to face top competition from across the country.
Looking ahead, Murphy’s goals remain ambitious.
“My goal is to be No. 1 at state next year, and every year after that,” he said. “I want to wrestle at Ohio State when I grow up.”
Both wrestlers are coached by Matt Allen, who has guided the athletes through their early development in the sport.
