I HAVE A heartwarming story to tell you today about an Ogden High School wrestler, Lane Brueland.

      So I'll share with you a letter of thanks and a Character Counts commendation his coach, Brian Reimers, distributed to the school staff.

"Character in Wrestling"

      The Ogden wrestling team wrestled Iowa Falls and Humboldt at Humboldt Feb. 1. Humboldt has a senior who is a Down Syndrome child. He has been out for football and wrestling and they wanted to know if we had anyone who would wrestle with him. Their coaches said he really just wants to roll around on the mat. He has no skill and you could easily pin him in seconds. I am very proud to say Lane Brueland said he would do this. They wrestled for six minutes. Lane allowed him to score points and technically beat him. I have to tell you it was one of the most moving moments I have ever witnessed.

      This young man had his hand raised as the winner. In fact there were two winners, Lane Brueland and this young man. We often times wonder about Character, and what our kids can demonstrate to others. Both these kids got a standing ovation and not very many dry eyes in the gym. When the official raised this young man's hand he looked and said "I WON"?????

      I'm proud that Lane is a part of the Ogden program. I'm proud that he made a difference in this young man's life yesterday. I'm proud to not only nominate him for our Number 1 Club but I hope you are as well. It was a very proud moment for all Ogden fans last night.

      Character really does count. I'm trying to get the video that this kid's parents were taking so I can share it with all of you.

      And now, the letter of thanks from the Humboldt wrestler's parents, sent to Coach Reimers to be passed along to Lane:

      DEAR LANE,

      We would like to thank you for your kindness and outstanding generosity shown at the Humboldt wrestling meet. You volunteered to wrestle our son, Brent, who has Down Syndrome and then gave him the opportunity to be the winner of the match. The invaluable joy that this gave Brent will never be forgotten by him, or by us. To see Brent raise his arms in victory was awesome!

      We did not have the opportunity to meet you, but wish we could have to thank you in person. Your remarkable character shown that evening touched many of the individuals that were watching.

      May your desires to help others be successful help guide you to be successful in your life. Sportsmanship at this level truly reflects athletics at its best and makes you a winner!

      Thank you again, Lane, for the unforgettable wrestling match you so unselfishly made possible for our son.

      Best wishes to you in your future endeavors.

      Sincerely,

      Ron and Judy Oberhelman