Hi there, my name is Devin Murphy and I am a second year human health science student at the University of Dubuque. My best friend, Jacob Rivera, decided to attend UD out of high school, and I decided I wanted to be a Spartan and represent a great college on and off the mat as well. Sadly, not long after he made his college decision, Jacob died in a terrible vehicle accident. I did not know if I ever wanted to wrestle again after his accident. But wrestling has always calmed my thoughts. Like life, wrestling has demonstrated that no struggle is simple; yet, through hard work and a willingness to take on the struggle, you can achieve great things. Addressing your mental and physical health is important and necessary to take on any struggle. Wrestling has forced me to do this, and because of it, I have gotten through some tough times. Jacob and I have spent our entire lives battling and striving to be the best we could for one another; and his memory drives me to continue to do so. Most, maybe, would not be able to carry on, but I trust God to guide me on the proper path. Being able to represent my best friend makes me realize that my mental fortitude has never been any stronger than it is right now. I will continue to lean on God and focus on my health to overcome the struggles that lie ahead.
