Ryan Broderson, a 9th-grade wrestler from Grand Junction, has recently made waves in the wrestling community by participating in a unified match at the state championship in Denver. The experience was nothing short of emotional for Ryan, his family, and everyone involved.
A Passion That Defies Challenges
Ryan’s story is one of perseverance and determination. Despite facing a traumatic brain injury, intellectual disability, and being nonverbal, he has found solace and joy in the world of wrestling. For most people, wrestling is a physically demanding sport, but for Ryan, it’s become a place of empowerment.
His mother, Jo Stratton, shared how meaningful the experience was for Ryan, stating, “It was super exciting, super emotional, but it was such a great opportunity for Ryan. It was just an experience that I can’t explain how wonderful it was.” This unified match at the state championship wasn’t just a victory for Ryan—it was a testament to his hard work and resilience.
A Journey of Struggles and Triumphs
Ryan’s journey in wrestling began about four years ago, but it hasn’t been without challenges. “Lots of different struggles, just losing all the time is a huge struggle,” Jo explained. “But he just stays so positive and so tied to the sport. He loves it so much that he doesn’t even care.” His positive attitude, despite setbacks, has become a beacon of inspiration for others around him. Wrestling, which can be an incredibly tough sport, has become a passion Ryan refuses to let go of.
One of the key factors in Ryan’s success has been the support of his teammates. Jo Stratton couldn’t emphasize enough how much they’ve embraced Ryan into the team. “They just treat him like he’s one of their own. Central has just taken him in. It’s been a wonderful experience,” she shared.
A Family’s Commitment
The Broderson family’s journey with Ryan began when Jo and her husband, Eric Broderson, became foster parents to him at just 5 years old. After spending several years together, the family officially adopted Ryan in July 2024. This supportive, loving environment has played a crucial role in Ryan’s growth, both as a person and as an athlete.
Ryan’s passion for wrestling has only deepened over time, and it’s clear that the sport has become more than just a hobby—it’s a source of self-esteem, joy, and connection. The unified match at the state championship was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and community support.
Looking to the Future
Despite the hurdles he’s faced, Ryan has no intention of giving up on his wrestling journey. “Ryan plans on wrestling again next season,” Jo said with a proud smile. His commitment to the sport is unwavering, and it’s clear that he’s just getting started.
For Ryan, wrestling represents far more than just wins and losses—it’s about the community, the support, and the opportunity to prove that no matter the obstacles, boundaries can be broken.
