By Garth Shanklin – News Democrat
MOUNT ORAB — After making his mark as one of the top wrestlers in Western Brown High School history, Malachi Marlow will continue his career as a student/athlete on the collegiate level at Thomas More College.
Marlow excelled as a Bronco wrestler at Western Brown from the time he was a freshman, and as a Thomas More Saint he will be looking to make a name for himself as a college freshman among some talented wrestlers.
This past winter season, Marlow recorded his 142nd career win and became the all-time leader for varsity wrestling career wins at Western Brown.
Unfortunately, his senior season did not end as he hoped. Although he was favored to earn a berth in the OHSAA Division II State Wrestling championships, he would have to serve as an alternate at the state championships after not qualifying as a state competitor. Now, Marlow is excited to get the opportunity to continue his wrestling career with hopes of finding more success in the sport he loves most.
“The opportunity feels great because my high school career did not end well so I believe that this will be my time to show what I can really do,” said Marlow.
This past season, Marlow was named Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference American Division Co-wrestler of the Year, sharing in the honors with sophomore teammate Brandon Lucas.
During his high school wrestling career, Marlow claimed the league title all four times while also capturing four sectional titles.
“It felt good but that was not my goal, my goal was of course higher,” said Marlow.
As he leaves Western Brown High School, he leaves behind a committed coach who he credits for helping him find success as a high school varsity wrestler and a younger brother, Jedidiah Marlow, a member of the Bronco wrestling team who he will miss spending so much time with.
“I feel like I will miss practices, and traveling with my brother because he made trips so fun,” said Marlow. “Plus, (I will miss) being a part of such a good team, and of course I will miss Coach ‘D’ [Wendel Donathan] a lot.
“I want to thank Coach ‘D’ for everything, because he pushed me always and never let me quit when there were times that I wanted to,” he added.
Marlow also expressed his appreciation of several others who have helped him succeed as a high school student/athlete, whether the task was taking him on long trips or providing him with the positive support he needed.
“I definitely want to thank Tracy and BJ Lucas and Barry Henderson for taking me on long trips for tournaments or camps, or just a practice so that I could become better as an athlete,” said Marlow. “Lastly, I want to thank my Mom, Dad, and family for letting me pursue wrestling and dealing with my constant grouchiness when I cut weight. It may not have seemed like it, but I loved them all and wish I could thank them enough.”
Marlow was undecided on what he plans to major in during his freshman year at Thomas More, but said he is currently interested in Law and Economics.
