By Morgan Taylor, Reporter
EDMOND, Oklahoma – Muscogee Citizens and twin brothers, Brayden and Christian Belford were starting freshman on Edmond North’s wrestling team. Being a starter as a freshman was a great accomplishment for both brothers as the team carries a winning reputation.
Both Belford boys placed fourth at the 6A Oklahoma State Championship on February 27, 2021 at Jim Norick Arena in OKC. Christian competed in the 106-weight class while Brayden wrestled in the 120-weight class. The Belford’s were part of a historic Edmond North wrestling team that broke school and state records.
Edmond North head wrestling coach Andy Schneider knew the boy would be a welcome addition to the program.
“I’ve known Brayden and Christian since they were very young in our youth program,” Schneider said. “I was always excited that they’d be on our high school team one day.”
“If there’s a workout being offered, they are there every time and this work ethic translates into them not only making the varsity lineup as freshman but also becoming 6A State Medalist.”
Wrestling plays a role in family history for the Belford’s. The boys’ father, Carl Belford, was a wrestler during grade school through college.
Carl had over 1,100 wins, a state championship and 249 individual tournaments before starting his college-wrestling career at the University of Oklahoma on scholarship for all four years.
Carl was also awarded the 1983 Sports Illustrated Award of Merit and featured on ABC’s ‘That’s Incredible’ TV show.
“I’m extremely proud of my sons and the hard work and sacrifice they have devoted to wrestling,” Carl said. “Being able to watch my boys excel at a sport that has given so much to me is more rewarding than I could have ever imagined.”
It’s an honor to help guide them on their journeys.”
Brayden and Christian are continuing to train during this off-season to compete throughout the summer in local and national freestyle and Greco-Roman tournaments.
“I look forward to watching and helping them improve as wrestlers while growing into great young men who continue to make me and their family proud,” said Schneider.
The Belford family is proud of their Native American heritage and thankful for support from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
