BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Ashton “Parker” Maynard, the reigning KFWC Middle School state champion in the 130-pound weight class, was taken aback when he walked into the courtroom at the Martin County Government Center Monday. Little did he know, a surprise awaited him that would further cement his remarkable achievement in the world of wrestling.
Martin County wrestling coach Josh Muncy and several coaches, family and fans had gathered to honor the young wrestling prodigy. As Maynard was guided to the front of the room, he expressed his confusion.
“I don’t know what I’m doing here,” Maynard said.
Coach Muncy took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant role that many people had played in Maynard’s journey to success.
“A lot of people in this room have a lot of time invested in this young man and his success,” Muncy said proudly. “But we all know his success comes from his hard work and dedication.”
Reflecting on Maynard’s growth and development as both an athlete and a person, Muncy continued, “We’ve watched Parker grow up and grow in wrestling since he was just a little guy. He’s grown into a young man that some of these little guys in the room look up to.”
With great enthusiasm, Muncy revealed the purpose of the gathering.
“We’re excited,” said Muncy. “He is our first middle school state champion that we have had in a few years and the first one at the combined Martin County Middle School. We wanted to honor him and give him a state championship ring.”
As Maynard received the ring, Muncy explained, “We ordered it a few months ago, and it finally came in. Something that nice takes a while to make.” The ring arrived in an elegant backlit case, which impressed the audience members.
Grinning with delight, Maynard expressed his admiration for the ring. “That’s awesome,” he said.
Following Muncy’s instructions, Maynard carefully removed the ring from its case and slipped it onto his finger.
Muncy addressed the room, emphasizing the collective support that Maynard had received throughout his journey. “This is on behalf of everyone in here, everyone that’s coached him in the youth league and middle school,” Muncy declared proudly.
The coach then expressed his hopes for Maynard’s future successes.
“Hopefully, I can put four or five more of those on your finger in the next four or five years,” Muncy said.
Responding with optimism, Maynard said, “I hope so.”
Muncy concluded the memorable moment by assuring Maynard, “You keep winning them, and we’ll keep buying them.”
Maynard’s achievements extend beyond the middle school level. Last season, he claimed victory in numerous youth and middle school tournament championships. Those include Bobby Bates, Hatfield & McCoy and Bristol Brawl. Demonstrating his prowess, Maynard even competed at the high school level. He emerged triumphant in the Hatfield & McCoy 32, Ashland Invitational and Tates Creek Invitational tournaments.
The state championship title is not unfamiliar to Maynard. He has previously clinched state titles in the youth division in 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2021.
In addition to his wrestling accomplishments, Maynard is a straight-A student.
Maynard is the son of his greatest fans, Asher Maynard and Ashley Maynard.
Maynard’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the unwavering support of the wrestling community. With his talent, hard work and the backing of his coaches and family, the future looks promising.
