Bend High brothers are chasing greatness with their dad by their side
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -p There are two brothers competing at the highest level on the wrestling mat. It's an experience like no other, and they are on a quest for state glory.
Eric and Leif Larwin are nearly unstoppable. The two have been dominating all year, in hopes that both will be standing on top of the podium at the end of the season.
Eric isn’t taking his senior year for granted: “Well, you know, I've got to make it count. Senior year, got to have fun, and you just gotta wrestle. Things are just coming together for me! Everything’s lining up, I’m working hard, and I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing. I have an undefeated senior season going.”
Brothers, teammates, and formidable opponents.
Senior Eric Larwin and his younger brother, sophomore Leif, don’t mess around when they step onto the wrestling mat.
“We get after it in practice, you know, and then go home and have dinner together too, which is always fun. That family dynamic just makes our bond that much stronger," Eric added.
Eric was a state runner-up last season, while Leif is pushing for back-to-back individual titles. “I think it's just about finishing strong right now and absolutely powering through. We’re both aiming for state titles," Leif said.
Part of their success stems from relentless training together. “Iron sharpens iron, and as we say — brother sharpens brother," Leif continued.
Eric added, “Yeah, I'd say I want it more for Leif than he wants it for himself. Every day in practice, we're pushing each other, beating each other up, trying to make each other better.”
The duo shares one last season together, coached by their father, who has led Bend High wrestling for 16 years. “I remember joking with them, saying they’d be lucky to take me down one day. That day came sooner than I thought," Coach Larwin said.
This season, the brothers have continued their dominance, both claiming individual titles at the Reser’s Tournament of Champions. Leif said it's something he will remember forever: “You can't really put it into words. I don't know if it’s ever been done before, but for two brothers to win their titles with their dad in their corner — it’s pretty special.”
As the season winds down, their father will watch from the sidelines as Eric and Leif fight to cement their legacy in Lava Bear history. Eric is confident in both their abilities.
“I just think everything's going to work out well. For me and Leif especially, I’m keeping my focus on an undefeated senior season and winning that state and regional title.”
“No coasting." Leif added, "We’re planning on hitting the gas, accelerating, and powering through the state tournament.”
The Larwin brothers and the Lava Bears will have their final dual this Thursday against Mountain View, and next week, the duo will wrestle for a league title.
