May 5, 2008

Article from Galion Inquirer

Fox Returns Home To a Hero's Welcome
By Jeremy Burkhart, Inquirer Correspondent

Galion's only two-time state high school wrestling champion, Dustin Fox, came home over the weekend once again a champion and received a homecoming welcome befitting one of his stature.

A party was held Saturday night at the Varsity Grille in honor of Fox winning the NCAA Division I heavyweight national championship for the Northwestern Wildcats.

On March 22 in St. Louis, Fox did what no other Galion wrestling alumnus had done before him by winning the title match that was televised live on ESPN.

Although proud of his accomplishments Fox stayed true to his humble hardworking nature, giving credit to his high school coaches for his success.

"I'm very blessed to have been as successful as I am," Fox said. "But I wouldn't of made it with out them."

The coaches the giant was referring to former Galion High School wrestling head coach Kyle Baughn, longtime Tiger mentor Jim Wegesin as well as the Orange and Blue's current head coach Matt Tyrell and assistant coach Brent Tyrell.

"Galion's wrestling program is in great hands with coach (Matt) Tyrell," Fox said. >[? While in many ways he is still the same Dustin as he was when he left for Evanston, Ill. and the campus of Northwestern in 2004, Fox knows his success as a wrestler has opened doors for him that may not have been opened for the average person.

"You get a lot of special perks," he said with a sly smile. "If I had known it was this much fun I would have won three more."

He added the national championship win has affected his life in a very profound way, whether being recognized in places he never though possible or being asked to give a speech at the campus-wide dedication of his alma mater yesterday.

"I was at a water polo match with my girlfriend in Michigan and some guy walked up to me and said `hey aren't that Fox kid'," Fox said. "I also have gone to some clubs in Chicago and so many people recognize me it's like I'm back in Galion. That's something I never thought would happen."

The national championship has also gave him opportunities, including possibly in the field which he is majoring in school -- film.

"I love film, so if I got a chance to work in the entertainment industry I would be thrilled," he said.

While Fox's family hinted that there might be some opportunities in other fields -- including professional football -- Dustin himself remained tight-lipped on the subject.

"I can't really comment on that right now." Fox said.

While Fox wouldn't rule out making a run at wrestling in the Olympics, he doesn't think he will do so this year.

Right now the Northwestern senior's focus is on graduating and finishing up his degree this summer.

"Hopefully I will be walking (graduating) in June," Fox said.