First Academy-Leesburg senior Ciaran Braton is among the Top 10 ranked 175-pound wrestler in Florida. He recently notched his 100th career victory.

Ciaran competes for the Eagles in Class 1A. He was able to reach the century mark a few weeks ago amid a strong senior campaign that has seen him dominate at tournaments like the Windham Rotunda Memorial and others, including recent top finishes that have helped solidified his statewide standing.

Wrestling entered Ciaran’s life in eighth grade, making this his fifth year on the mat. His father, Jack Braton, introduced him to the sport, while his mother, Allison Braton has continually provided him unwavering support that made it all possible.

“I started wrestling my 8th grade year. This will be my fifth year wrestling,” Ciaran says. “My dad was the person that introduced me to the sport, and it wouldn’t have been possible without my mom.”

Faith plays a central role in Ciaran’s life and approach to competition. He strives to emulate Jesus Christ, viewing Him as the only perfect example. Before matches, he often recites Isaiah 6:8: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

“That verse shows just how dedicated Isaiah is to the Lord,” Ciaran says. “I just like to say it before my wrestling matches.” And it’s certainly had its impact as Ciaran continues to dominate. 

His most influential figure in wrestling is coach Taylor Jackson, who has invested heavily in Ciaran’s development.

“He has put so much work into my wrestling career,” Ciaran says.

One of Ciaran’s favorite memories came this summer at the Disney Duals, saying “It was the most fun I have ever had at a tournament.” 

The Eagles’ program has been small, Ciaran was the lone wrestler for his first two years, and now shares the team with another Jackson Keller.

“Wrestling for First Academy involves a lot of solitude,” he says. “Now we have two people on the team, which I am extremely grateful for.”

Through it all, wrestling has transformed him.

“It has completely changed me as a person physically and mentally,” Ciaran says. “It has definitely given me self-discipline.”

It’s a strong message that his coaches have laid down for him. One of the biggest lessons he’s learned is “To do your best to be unaffected by adversity, no matter what gets in your way, keep trying your hardest.” 

Ciaran overcame a major hurdle early in his career by improving his mindset, which once held him back.

“When I overcame that issue, my wrestling improved two-fold,” he says.

That’s led him to be among Florida’s top wrestlers in the state. But another piece of advice that comes from his grandfather has also helped his mindset to never take anything anyone says too seriously, which has stuck with him, helping maintain perspective without dismissing others entirely.

To younger wrestlers, Ciaran says to “Never stop working, stay active and close to the Lord.”

Off the mat, he maintains a 3.6 GPA, enjoys hanging out with friends and playing video games, and has a history of volunteer work at his church, including helping with tasks and serving food.

Looking ahead, the senior plans to either attend college or pursue a trade after graduation.