Sunday, February 26, 2017

Remembering Nick Roberts

   I woke up this morning to the sad news that Nick Roberts passed away last night, and while I don't have the time to blog much anymore without covering wrestling full-time, this news deserves such a posting.
   I first got to know Nick in 2009, during his run to winning the 103-pound state championship in his freshman season at North Star. At the state tournament, I helped the Somerset Daily American with its coverage during the first two days of the event, while also being there for my normal duties with the Bedford Gazette.
   After Nick won his semifinal bout, I couldn't find him right away, and I asked former North Star head coach Pat Berzonski to let him know I wanted to speak with him. Nick found me inside the arena, and the interview ended up being conducted on the floor of the Giant Center, matside as I was covering the 130-pound semifinal for Hyndman's Logan Sheldon. I'll always remember those few minutes for Nick's patience and maturity as a ninth grader, who probably had better things to do rather than wait to chat with some guy from Bedford he didn't really know.
   The following year, I featured Nick as the lead story for the Gazette's Thomas Tournament preview section. We spoke for the story prior to North Star's dual meet with Chestnut Ridge that season. Again, Nick was very gracious with his time.
   We also ran into each other at a Sheetz in Bedford one night and chatted for a few minutes. The last time I spoke to Nick was at a match at Chestnut Ridge. At the time, rumors of him transferring from Ohio State to UPJ were circulating, and I just wanted to wish him the best.
   Obviously, his wrestling credentials speak for themselves. Three state high school championships followed by a D2 national title. But when someone asks me about Nick Roberts, I'll talk about maturity, politeness, and patience.
   My prayers and deepest condolences go out to Nick's family, his friends, and those he touched in the wrestling world.