Princeton's Michael Daughtry uses family as motivation

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on February 18, 2016 1:48 PM

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PRINCETON -- Michael Daughtry checks in at the scorer's table and steps onto the mat.

He circles and silently quotes the Bible verse "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." The words create an inner peace for the Princeton High wrestler.

But they also fuel his heart and soul in another way.

Daughtry developed a love for wrestling in middle school and attended many of his cousin's matches. Josh Best perished in a tragic car accident that stunned the close-knit community. Best's spirit continues to live in Daughtry, who also draws inspiration from his wheelchair-bound brother, Owen.

"I knew I always wanted to wrestle," Daughtry said. "I felt like I needed to wrestle for him (Josh), so I really got in shape and pushed myself. I think about him and Owen, who can't get out there and do what I'm doing. I push myself for my family and try to honor God when I'm out there."

That faith has led to a bounty of success.

Daughtry is the first-ever member of the Bulldogs' Century Club (100 career wins), has won two eastern 1-A individual regional championships and placed fourth as a junior in last year's state tournament. He, along with former teammate Forrest Stewart, have emerged as the faces of the PHS program.

"Michael has been working hard and wrestles year round. His technique is a lot better than when he first started wrestling," Bulldogs head coach Terry Braswell said. "(His success) helps to get the other kids into wrestling when they see somebody pretty good like Michael walking the hallways."

Success hasn't come easy, however.

Daughtry laughed about his freshman season.

"Oh, it was bad," he said. "I think nine of my 11 wins were forfeits."

One year later, he collected 29 victories and advanced to the state tournament. He finished 0-2.

Eager to fine-tune his work ethic in every aspect of the sport, Daughtry joined the Diamond Elite Club in Raleigh after his sophomore campaign. He absorbed knowledge like a sponge from wrestlers, who were either returning state qualifiers or state champions.

"That's when I made a big jump in technique and began pushing myself harder," Daughtry said. "Lots of good competition and good wresting in that mat room. I've learned skills that have helped me become better a wrestler and I've also become a better person thanks to my coach, Stan Chambers."

Daughtry won 36 matches a year ago.

But an opening-round loss to Rosman's Tanner Whitman in the state tournament left a bitter taste. Daughtry toiled his way through the consolation rounds only to meet Whitman again in the bronze-medal match.

Whitman prevailed 5-3.

"We all fall short sometimes," Daughtry said.

He doesn't intend to suffer that fate this season.

His workout partners, Kyle Balageo and PHS grad Tyler Baker, have tested him in the mat room throughout the year. Balageo is closer to Daughtry's weight and similar in body frame, while Baker is bigger in both aspects. The two styles have broadened Daughtry's experience and built his self confidence.

Now, the only thing left is to accomplish his dream -- a state title, which is a fantasy for every wrestler that becomes reality for just one. Daughtry (42-6 overall) relishes the intensity of the battling for that gold medal, feeling the adrenaline flow through his veins and using every body part of his body for an exhausting six minutes -- possibly more.

"I get so nervous before every match and I don't take anybody for granted. I pray that the Lord leads me with His will and whatever He wants happens," Daughtry said. "It's hard to push yourself through, a challenge. But it's worth it if you win ... the best feeling in the world.

"I just want to make sure I wrestle smart, wrestle for God and leave it all on the mat."

Josh and Owen wouldn't expect anything less.