6-23-10 —     Wayne County High School graduate Tyler Pace will be wearing the  

colors for the Patriots at the University of the Cumberlands in  

Williamsburg, Kentucky, when he begins his college career in the fall.

    Just before the close of the school year, Pace signed a contract to  

join the university's men's wrestling team when Head Coach Andy  

Medders traveled to Wayne County to present him with a four-year  

scholarship.

    Pace is one of Wayne County's state champion heavyweights, who was a  top wrestling prospect this season.

    He received numerous medals during his high school wrestling career  

under the direction of Coach Danny Upchurch.

 "He's going to go to college and make an impact athletically," said  

Coach Medders. "He's also got a lot of academic promise too. In my  

opinion, he'll come in right away and challenge wrestlers for the  

starting spot."

    "I'm overwhelmed and excited to become a patriot. I love wrestling,"  

said Pace. "I have experienced some success in wrestling and I'd like  

to see that continue in my collegiate career."

    "I've kept my eye on him," said Coach Medders. "He fits the mold we  

are looking for—not only for his character and athleticism, but his  

personality will make him an outstanding student athlete."

    Pace was also considering enrolling in some military classes at the  

college level and Coach Medders said he had four other athletes in  

the ROTC program at University of the Cumberlands.