Mark Branch, a four-time finalist and two-time national champion, discusses his wrestling journey with Shane Sparks. Branch recalls his first meeting with John Smith, who convinced him to join Oklahoma State over the University of Oklahoma. He describes the initial challenges of transitioning from high school to college wrestling, feeling inadequate and overmatched.
 
Branch emphasizes the importance of perseverance, citing his freshman season where he won the national championship despite entering the tournament with a losing record. He also shares the emotional impact of overcoming a serious knee injury and the support from his mother's cancer battle. Branch highlights the shift in his coaching philosophy to prioritize relationships and emotional support for his athletes.
 
Check out Shane Sparks’ interview with Mark Branch on Episode 38 of the Go Earn It Podcast.

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