Tyler Craig and his brother, Cody, each reached historic wrestling milestones on the same day this season. Tyler, a senior, won his 200th career match at Maine’s New England Qualifier tournament, while sophomore Cody notched his 100th career victory.

For their outstanding success, the Skowhegan brothers are this season’s Morning Sentinel Wrestlers of the Year.

The timing of the milestones symbolize the level of success of the two grapplers and also the relationship between the brothers. Each has pushed the other to accomplish a competitive level that they may not have reached on their own.

Their father, Bob, has seen first-hand the development of the two throughout the years.

“They are always with each other and always training together,” he said. “They are each other’s harshest critics, but deeply care how the other one competes. Their styles and personalities are so different but their mindset is the same. They both hate to lose. I always tell my boys that they should thank each other every time they win a match.”

For his career, Tyler won 202 matches and earned three state championships; his first as a freshman at Mt. Blue High School before he transferred to Skowhegan prior to his sophomore year. He also won state titles as a sophomore and junior before falling short of a fourth state crown as a senior. Tyler lost a 2-0 decision against Marshwood’s Bradley Beaulieu in the state championship match at 126 pounds. Beaulieu would go on to finish second at the New England championships. Although he will graduate in June, his wrestling days aren’t over.

“I want to wrestle in college,” he said. “I’m hoping to attend the US Merchant Marine Academy or possibly the University of Southern Maine.”

Cody has won two consecutive state titles in the 106 pound class. He has 103 wins and has never lost to a Maine opponent. He has dominated most of his competition during high school and is thankful to have Tyler around to work out with.

“I always know I’m going to have a quality workout partner,” he said. “I’m definitely going to miss having Ty around next year.”

Skowhegan coach Tenney Noyes knows the impact the two have had on the rest of his team.

“Ty and Cody bring a great level of experience to the team,” he said. “They have traveled and wrestled all over the country. That experience and knowledge benefits them and their teammates day in and day out in the practice room.”

Related Stories