The past year was a stellar one for Turlock High’s Erick Parsons who finished his senior season with success on both the football field and wrestling mat. Parsons led the Bulldogs to a playoff berth, was named the team’s MVP, and participated in the High School Senior All-Star Football Game in Tampa, Fla. As a wrestler, he was a big part of Turlock’s undefeated CCC Championship season, placed third at the Masters Tournament and was one of four Bulldogs to qualify for the State Tournament.

With all his achievements as a high school athlete it was a given that Parsons would continue his athletic career at the collegiate level. Many believed his career would continue on the football field but, in a surprising turn of events, Parsons has decided to pursue wresting at Menlo College on a partial scholarship.

“I love both, but I wanted to just focus on one sport,” Parsons said. “I realized there’s less damage done to your body in the long run with wrestling and that success depends on what you put into it.”

Parson’s decision means he will join Menlo’s wrestling team and contribute almost immediately, wrestling at 185 pounds. During a campus visit earlier in the year Parsons was able to meet with his future teammates who encouraged him to continue his wrestling career and join their fraternity of grapplers. The sense of camaraderie has Parsons excited for the future.

“I feel prepared. It’s going to be a giant step competition wise, but I’m going to go in head first and I think I’ll end up on my feet,” Parsons said. “I want to learn how to live on my own and take the world on by myself. I’m pretty excited.”