To say that Trey Hudgens marches to the beat of his own drum…well might be on to something as the two-time state wrestling qualifier is also the featured drum for the Sallisaw Black Diamond marching band.

“People usually describe me as fun-loving, hardworking, and easy going,” replied the 2022 senior. “I would say fun-loving is most important because you have to learn to have fun with things that are generally not fun, wrestling especially.”

Fun on the mat has been accomplished through Hudgens’ ability to maintain both physical and mental conditioning that combine to result in victories in his favorite sport while making the best of his 6-foot-5 frame to extend his reach.

“I definitely use my length and leverage to my advantage. People usually aren’t accustomed to wrestling someone with my build.”

After qualifying last year at 170 pounds, Hudgens will compete this year in the 195 pound division employing his length and quickness for bonus points something he credits to the inspiration of his favorite wrestler.

“Gable Steveson is a heavyweight who wrestles for Minnesota. You will probably never see such quickness out of a heavyweight in the next 20 years.”

Off the mat, Hudgens talents as a drummer are part of his relaxation moments while enjoying a variety of music genre.

“I’m kind of a jack of all trades when it comes to music, I like Rap, Metal, Jazz etc. but my favorite artist would have to be Nate Smith, he is a legendary drummer,” answered Hudgens while enjoying a his favorite go-to-meal prior to a wrestling match, Braums’ bacon, egg and cheese sandwich. “I have a drum kit in my room at that I play to relax.” 

Hudgens places a championship high level of importance to character on and off the wrestling mat exampled by his maintaining a 4.0 GPA including his favorite subject, history taught by his favorite instructor, Mr. Bateman.

“Character is the unique traits that make up who you are,” explained Hudgens. “Character is important as it dictates everything you do in your day to day life, as well as what you bring to other people.”

It’s these efforts by Hudgens that draw praise from his coach on the wrestling mat.

“Trey’s work ethic makes him a champion, not just in wrestling but in everything he does,” said Sallisaw coach Darren Peaster. “He examples his character by letting his actions speak louder than words.”