Osvaldo Ariciaga is a senior at Madill High School and said he has always attended Madill.
“Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat,” he said with a smile.
Ariciaga’s proud parents are Avelino and Aurora Ariciaga. He has two younger siblings, Yvette and Lionel.
Over the years, Ariciaga has been involved in football, powerlifting, cross country, and track. However, this year, he said he decided to focus on football and powerlifting. Through the years, he earned many medals in cross country and track such as state qualifiers in both during his sophomore year. He also was a state qualifier in powerlifting his sophomore and junior years.
He said playing sports is challenging, but very rewarding.
“Waking up early in the mornings has been my biggest challenge over the years, however, qualifying for state my sophomore year has been my most memorable moment,” he said. “I am grateful for my coaches pushing me, I amabetterathletebecauseof it. Also, my parents support me in whatever sport I’m participating in and push me to become a better person. I love you.”
When it comes to his inspiration in life Ariciaga attributes his family.
“My family is my biggest inspiration,” he said. “This includes my grandparents, aunts, and uncles, even my church friends John and Glenna Ganster. They are always there for me when I need them and always teaching me new things.”
Although Ariciaga is undecided on what he wants to major in after high school, he said he has plans to attend college. His advice for the younger classmen is, “Enjoy high school because time flies.”