A Bout with Destiny – Bear’s big match
TROY, P.A. (WETM) – Troy’s Cameron “Bear” Allen continues to overcome the odds and inspire.
(Video Courtesy: Trojan Horse Wrestling Club)
Troy Area 5th grader, Cameron “Bear” Allen has an unmatched passion for wrestling. Allen also faces the challenges of living with Down’s Syndrome, but that has not stopped him from getting on the wrestling mats or maintaining a positive attitude. Nicknamed “Bear,” thanks to his signature “bear hug,” the young wrestler quickly made a lasting impact on his classmates and teachers. Two teachers that have developed a special bond with Bear, would ultimately help him overcome the odds, and have a wrestling match.
After going over ideas with Trojans basketball head coach Bob Woodward, on how to get Allen involved with the school’s teams, Craig Pequignot developed a plan for Bear to have a special match. The Troy High School teacher and North Penn-Liberty wrestling head coach, corresponded with Allen’s family and Troy assistant wrestling coach Garrett Wesneski, to set up the bout. As a result, a plan came together for Bear to wrestle North Penn-Liberty 6th grader Bridger Lehman, before Troy’s varsity match.
Once the match was set, Troy’s varsity wrestling team helped Allen suit up and prepare for the special bout. On December 20th, 2023, Bear pinned Lehman in front of the Trojan faithful and followed up with his signature jump and flex celebration. For those close to Allen, the moment was far bigger than wrestling.
“When he pinned him and flexed to the crowd, said Wesneski. They were all just going nuts for him. It’s something that you love to see and it puts a smile on your face.”
Allen’s win, even inspired his adversary on the mat.
“It was pretty fun wrestling him, said Lehman. It’s just a big part of being good, because I know it meant a lot too him.”
According to Wesneski and Pequignot, Bear anticipates returning for more matches in the future. Aside from his skills on the mat, Bear’s teachers emphasize that his biggest strength comes from his heart.
“Every day, he puts a smile on my face, said Pequignot. He makes me think about how fortunate I am, to interact with students everyday, and the importance that I have on them.”
“He knows how to put a smile on your face, said Wesneski. When I was new here, I got to meet Bear, and see how his classmates look up to him. They enjoy making his day, they want to make his day, and I think that comes from his personality. It’s contagious. He’s always happy and giving out hugs, just a great attitude. In my class, I try to preach work ethic and attitude, that’s something he has everyday.”
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