Paul Ruff, a senior at Gering High School, was born deaf, but he’s never let that stop him from succeeding in life, including developing into one of the top prep wrestlers in Nebraska and putting himself in position to wrestle in college. Succeeding on the wrestling mat, however, isn’t what gives Ruff his biggest drive – it’s from having an opportunity to inspire people with his positive attitude, hard work ethic, and eagerness to conquer whatever challenge comes his way.
JEFF FIELDER Editor
GERING – Paul Ruff moves around the wrestling mat with a focused, determined look on his face.
Years of practicing has helped the Gering High School senior wrestle with confidence, for he knows what techniques to use at just the right moment. That’s helped him develop into one of the top prep wrestlers in Class B in Nebraska. He’s qualified for the state tournament his first three years of high school, including earning a runner-up finish last year. He’s performing even better this season, as he ended the month of December with a 16-0 record.
Ruff’s wrestling resume would be impressive for any high school athlete. But it’s particularly remarkable for him since he’s deaf.
“That causes some challenges for me, but I’ve never used being deaf as an excuse for anything,” Ruff said. “My parents taught me at an early age that whatever challenges come my way, if I work hard enough, I can conquer them.”
You can read the entire story in the current issue of Nspire Today! magazine. A one-year subscription (12 issues) is only $15. You may sign up for a subscription by sending $15 to Nspire Today!, P.O. Box 454, Scottsbluff, NE 69363, or you may pay with a credit card by calling 308-220-8865.
The current issue of Nspire Today! magazine is available at locations listed below.
