Burhenn Records His 100th Career Victory

Derek Burhenn’s commitment is paying dividends.

Thursday at Parry McCluer High School, the senior became just the second wrestler in Alleghany High School history to join the 100-win club.

In his first match at the Fighting Blues’ Craft Classic, Burhenn pinned Staunton River’s Kyle Williams to join 2005 AHS graduate Mark Casstevens in the exclusive club.

“Derek is devoted to the sport,” said Mountaineer coach Dale Burdette. “He deserves every reward he gets.”

Burhenn, a two-time Group AA state qualifier, now has 107 career wins, one short of Casstevens’ Alleghany record 108.

He could tie the record tonight in the Mountaineers’ home senior night match with Staunton River and could eclipse the mark this weekend in the annual Alleghany Duals Tournament.

Burhenn won both Blue Ridge District and Region III titles as a freshman, and after a injury-filled sophomore year, won another district title as a junior.

Burdette has seen the evolution of Burhenn both on and off the mat.

“Derek has matured not only as a wrestler, but off the mat as well,” said his coach. “He is an easy kid to root for.”