BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Every drop of sweat for Century’s Olav Taylor is one step closer to another state title.

“Just do my job, and everything will come together in the end,” Century senior Olav Taylor said.

Taylor has a chance to reach rare air this week. He’s chasing a third straight individual wrestling state championship.

“I try not to think about it,” Taylor said. “It’s going to be sad when it’s all over, so I’m trying to focus on getting there.”

He could become the first Patriot in more than two decades to win three titles in a row.

“It means a lot to join a special group like that and get my name on the wall again,” Taylor said.

Taylor’s takedowns have led to a perfect 29-0 record this year, but regardless of the outcome this week, the Southwest Minnesota State football commit has plenty of athletic opportunities ahead.

“How I classify Ole is he’s an ultimate competitor,” Patriots’ Head Coach Nate Humann said. “He wants to win. He’s been injured or sick sometimes throughout the last couple seasons, and he’s just hungry, hungry, hungry to get back, and he wants to be there for his team, and he wants to dominate.”

Taylor’s experiences on the field have translated to the mat, and he hopes they’ll provide an advantage one last time in the Fargo Dome.

“If you’re a good wrestler, you’re going to be a good football player, and if you’re a good football player, there’s attributes that will make you a good wrestler,” Taylor said. “And I think me being a wrestler has made me a better football player has made me a better wrestler.”

The state tournament begins on Thursday in Fargo with the individual portion. The state team dual tournament is on Saturday.

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