Once in a while a wrestler catches your attention and makes you want to know more about them. This was the case with Mountain Home’s Gabriel Rosales. At the 2022 Idaho State Wrestling Championships, I observed Gabriel with a wide grin up on the top podium receiving his first of two individual state championship titles. Seeing the pure joy on his face, I decided to take action and find out more about him which led me to meeting his twin brother, Daniel, who is also an exceptionally talented wrestler and person. There is an old saying, “Life is a journey, not a destination,” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This couldn’t be more true for these brothers. Life for the Rosales brothers had not always been easy, but that all changed when their second cousin, Jose, became their father after adopting them prior to high school. This action alone was a significant turning point for the twins. Not only were they on a new and promising path, but were in position to explore greater opportunities and acquire the necessary tools to excel in life.

The Rosales brothers early childhood experiences were met with many challenges and uncertainties. Although they were surrounded by several extended family members that provided love and support, they had no concrete direction or steady parental presence to guide them. For instance, their mother was not consistently present and their biological father has never been involved in their lives. Being raised by their great grandmother, Lupe, the one constant in their lives, she always loved and kept them active in extracurricular activities and youth sports. You name it, they played it/practiced it; football, martial arts, youth basketball, or any sport activity that kept them engaged.  

It was around 2017, when the Rosales brothers were attending middle school, that their great grandmother passed away. With a lot of uncertainty to who would raise them or where they would end up living, it wasn’t long before Jose made the decision to adopt them.  Prior to, Jose had a good relationship with the twins, but was not involved in their everyday lives or had a say into their direction or any personal matters. Having grown up himself without a strong father figure, Jose wanted to make a difference in Gabriel and Daniel’s future. According to Jose, he had a lot of struggles growing up. His father was never there for him to guide or provide any direction. Furthermore, his father wanted nothing to do with him or his four siblings. Now, a father himself of two young children and the twins, Jose wanted to reverse his childhood reality and be a positive role model and good dad, as well as mentor in his community.

“I’m a father figure to half of this town and I feel it’s my calling and the twins are helping me get my foot in the door to help kids like us.”

• Jose Rosales

   

  Jose never looked back nor did he dwell on his past. Subsequently, he has been a positive role model and father figure, providing strong direction, love, and parental guidance. For the past several years, Jose has been an essential part of the twins’ lives in many facets. For example, he has coached them in youth football, basketball, provided fatherly advice, as well as participated in other extracurricular activities such as mountain climbing, detailing cars, and attending church services together. Beyond any doubt, the twins were now on an optimistic course in life and a strong bond had been solidified with Jose.

  Fast forward to the beginning of the twins’ freshman year in high school, and the general notion of joining the wrestling team at Mountain Home was not even a thought or a perceived probability in their lives. The likelihood that they would join the football or basketball programs together was far greater. As expected, Gabriel tried out for the freshman basketball team, but for some reason Daniel decided not to participate. If not for Daniel’s teacher, Mr. Starkey, encouraging him to take his talents from the gridiron to the wrestling mat, I would not be writing this article today.

  This was the first time that the twins did not participate in the same sport together. Nevertheless, this did not stop Daniel from continuously encouraging Gabriel to join him on the mat. When it came to playing basketball, Gabriel illustrated the traits of a wrestler on the court. According to Jose, Gabriel was very physical and routinely fouled out of most of his games by the third quarter. By season’s end, Gabriel came to the realization that perhaps he should take his brother’s advice and give wrestling a try the following season.

  Regardless of the activity or sporting event, the twins have always exerted a 100% effort and pushed each other to do better. From day one at the first week of wrestling practice their sophomore year, both Daniel and Gabriel set a tempo that energized the wrestling room to another level. Considering that Gabriel had never wrestled in his life, he showed promising signs that the sport of wrestling was a natural fit for him, and together with his brother, their trajectory to excel to great heights in the sport was very promising. In fact, I have observed the twins in several competitions the past couple of years and am impressed with their competitive spirit and ability to compete at the highest levels. In my humble opinion, we have only touched the surface of their potential. According to Mountain Home assistant coach, Doug Scott, “I’ve coached a lot of kids through the multiple sports I’m involved in. I’ve rarely come across someone as fearless and as passionate as these two brothers are.”

  One of the many goals that the twins had heading into the new season was to qualify to get to the Idaho State Championships together. Considering that Daniel had already participated in the 2020 state tournament, the twins felt very confident that they could accomplish this feat. Despite a minor disruption in the semis at the District IV state qualifier, they accomplished their first goal. Wrestling in the same weight group at 106s, they both reached their semi-final matches (opposite sides of bracket), but lost to wrestlers that eventually went on to place in the top four at state. Despite the loss, the twins regrouped and made it to the third place match (top 4 qualify to state). Knowing that they were already headed to the state tournament, this did not stop them from wrestling each other for the third place bout. As anticipated, the twins did not disappoint and battled for three solid rounds, accumulating nearly a combined forty points in the process. In the end, Daniel won the highly contested match by a very slim margin.

  Having achieved one of their goals by qualifying to the 2021 Idaho State Championships together, the twins were not content and wanted more. What lay ahead was eventually winning the District IV qualifier, but more importantly placing in the top six at state and ultimately a spot of the top podium as an individual State Champion. Their experience together at state was short lived as they each lost in the preliminary rounds and were out of contention for a medal early on in the tournament. Despite not placing at state, the twins kept their heads held high and immediately got back to work on the mat to prepare for the following season. For many involved with the Mountain Home program, it was obvious that the twins’ passion for the sport and work ethic were not only placing them on an upward trajectory, but inspiring others in the room as well.

   

  “Daniel and Gabe’s successes can be attributed to their work ethic. They are the first guys to practice, the first ones wrestling around while they’re waiting for practice to start, and the hardest workers in the room.”

   

• Patrick Starkey, Mountain Home Head Coach

In just one short year, the sport of wrestling had become a norm for the twins and together they had established themselves a strong presence in the 4A division in the state of Idaho and much more. Always moving forward and never giving up has been the guiding force propelling them throughout their lives, and participating in the sport of wrestling had provided the same challenges, adversity, and realities, but also a means to develop the necessary life skills and tools to be successful. In essence, the sport of wrestling has proved to be a natural fit for the twins and a means to pursue their dreams both on the mat and in life.

The transition from the twins’ sophomore to junior seasons continued as scheduled with an increased regimen on training, wrestling schedule, and a hyper focus to achieve their next series of goals; winning Districts, a place on the state medal podium, and ultimately an individual state title. Jump ahead to the 2022 District IV Championships and both twins wrestled very well and by tournament’s end stood tall on the top step of the podium with the satisfaction that they had achieved another goal. Their celebration was short lived as there was more work to be done. 

The following week, the twins entered the state tournament more than ready to do battle. Their confidence level was at its greatest height since both entering the wrestling circle together in 2021. Without a doubt, the twins had worked very hard to close the competitive gap among their state opponents. As expected, the first day of competition went very well, but by tournament’s end there was an emotional mix of happiness and fulfillment coupled by sadness and a sense of major loss. To summarize, Gabriel had the tournament of his life by winning the 98 pound weight division in championship form. From the first whistle until the last, Gabriel was relentless on the mat, scoring a major decision, 10-0, and displaying the number one hand gesture as his hand was raised in victory. It was mission complete! All his goals at this point in his wrestling career had been fulfilled. On the other hand, prior to the championship finals, Daniel had lost a heartbreaker match in sudden victor OT during the consolation blood round when he initiated what was perceived as a takedown, but then called an illegal move. Despite falling short of his shared goal of reaching the medal stand with Gabriel, Daniel immediately moved forward and was mat side with his teammates and brother during their medal matches and championship finals.

When the dust settled and reality set in, the twins regrouped and established a new set of goals for the post season ahead, as well as establishing a new game plan to reach the top podium together at state in 2023. Moving forward, not much had changed with their training regimen and preparation for competition other than an increased emphasis to travel out of state to challenge themselves against tougher competition in addition to making the Idaho National Team to compete in Fargo for the 16U/Junior National Championships.

Throughout the post season and into the summer months, all had gone as scheduled for the twins. Having traveled to several state Freestyle and Greco-Roman competitions in Idaho and events throughout the greater western states, the twins experienced a lot of success as they earned multiple medals at these competitions. Additionally, the twins capped their summer months by earning a hard fought spot on the Idaho National Team competing in Fargo. I recall meeting up with Gabriel and Daniel at the Fargo training preparation camp in Meridian. We had a great conversation about school, wrestling, goals, and their overall outlook in life. Throughout our conversation, they displayed a sense of happiness, confidence, and enthusiasm. It was the strength of their gesture, a thought with no voice that impressed me the most about these young men.

My next interaction with the Rosales twins was mat side at the 2023 Idaho State Wrestling Championship finals in Nampa. Having had a stellar regular season and state tournament at this point, the twins were relaxed but eager to get on the mat and close their final prep chapter, each with a place on the top of the podium. This was their defining moment and they did not disappoint. In the final at 106s, Gabriel battled for three solid rounds, defeating returning state placer and three-time All-American Saxton Scott of Bonneville by a slim margin of 2-1 (Note – last month Scott won the Junior Folkstyle Nationals). Daniel followed with a decisive win over freshman standout, Jaxson Freeman of Caldwell to end his prep career on a solid note and joins his brother in the honor of becoming the first brothers to win individual state titles for Mountain Home High School.

During the medal ceremonies, the Rosales twins stood tall on the top podium, knowing that all their hard work, commitment, and dedication had paid off. It was mission accomplished, but not the end of their journey or final destination. To sum up their accomplishments at Mountain Home, the twins became the eleventh and twelfth wrestlers in the school’s history to win individual state titles, whereas, Gabriel is the fourth to win two titles (Shane Wyant became the first in 1999-’00). Additionally, the twins have exceled in the classroom and maintain solid grade point averages, placing them in the top 10 of their senior class. More importantly, they have become not only leaders on the mat, but in their community. According to Coach Patrick Starkey, “They’ve been leaders in the high school program, helped at the middle school practices, and they help coach the little kids in our club and parks and recreation programs.”

In summary, the Rosales twins have had their challenges and struggles growing up but have always faced adversity head on with a never quit attitude and are always moving forward. Jose has given them a new lease on life that I see the twins fully embracing. Discovering the sport of wrestling at Mountain Home High School, the twins have achieved a great deal in such a short period of time and have set a strong example for many to follow in the generations ahead. It is important to note that our experiences and lessons in life shape who we become as people. At every step we are faced with choices that will determine the person we ultimately become when we reach our final destination. The Rosales twins have only begun their journey and course to become or achieve anything they desire in life. They will be served well in the future with the tools and life skills they have acquired from the sport of wrestling from their coaches, along with the continued love, guidance, and support from Jose. I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know Gabriel and Daniel. They are not only outstanding athletes, but solid citizens I believe will impact many. I wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Recently, I had the opportunity to perform a Q&A interview with the twins. We talked about wrestling, goals, family, and their future. Below is a list of the twins’ academic and athletic profiles followed by our Q&A. Enjoy!

ROSALES BROTHER’S ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC PROFILES

Mountain Home High School

GABRIEL ROSALES

• WEIGHT GROUP: 106
• GRADE: 12 (Class of 2023)
• ACADEMIC ACCOLADE: 3.3 GPA (Ranked #8, Senior Class)
• CLUB: Elite Wrestling Club

WRESTLING ACCOLADES

• 2x Idaho State Champion (4A) ‘22, ‘23
• IHSAA District IV Champion (4A) ‘22, ‘23
• Mountain Home H.S. Wrestling Century Club – 100+ wins
• Rollie Lane Invitational – 3^rd Place ‘23
• USA Wrestling Western Regional – 5^th Place (FS) ‘23
• Idaho Freestyle State Championships – 3^rd Place ‘23
• Idaho Greco-Roman State Championships – 2^nd Place ‘23
• Idaho Folkstyle State Champion ‘22

DANIEL ROSALES

• WEIGHT GROUP: 113
• GRADE: 12 (Class of 2023)
• ACADEMIC ACCOLADE: 3.6 GPA (Ranked #7, Senior Class)
• CLUB: Elite Wrestling Club

WRESTLING ACCOLADES

• Idaho State Champion (4A), ‘23
• IHSAA District IV Champion (4A), ‘22, ‘23
• Mountain Home H.S. Wrestling Century Club – 100+ wins
• USA Western States – 3^rd Place (FS) ‘22
• USA Western States – 2^nd Place (GR) ‘22
• USA Western Regional – 2^nd Place (FS) ‘22
• USA Western Regional Champion (GR) ‘22
• Idaho Freestyle State Championships – 3^rd Place ‘22
• Idaho Greco-Roman State Championships – 3^rd Place ‘22
• Idaho Folkstyle State Championships – 3^rd Place ‘22
• USAW HS National Recruiting Showcase – 2^nd Place ‘22
• USAW HS National Recruiting Showcase – 3^rd Place ‘22

Q&A WITH GABRIEL AND DANIEL ROSALES

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED IN THE SPORT OF WRESTLING?

GABRIEL – My brother introduced wrestling to me my freshman year, but I chose not to join. It just didn’t appeal to me. That season, I played on the freshman basketball team while my brother wrestled. After continuous encouragement from my brother, I finally decided to give wrestling a try my sophomore year…The rest is history!

DANIEL – I knew nothing about wrestling prior to high school. I played football and other sports. It was my teacher, Mr. Starkey, who encouraged me to join the wrestling program.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN THE SPORT?

GABRIEL – My twin brother, Daniel. From the beginning, he has been my training partner and has taught me a great deal about the sport and how to work hard. Also, my father, Jose, and family. They have been my support system. My coaches, too. They have done so much for me. Coach Scott was my football coach and encouraged me to join the wrestling team. He and Coach Starkey have always been in my corner and have lifted me when I needed it the most, especially when I lost a match.

DANIEL – My dad, Jose. He has always been there for me and has encouraged me to work hard and achieve my goals in wrestling and life.

DESCRIBE YOUR ACADEMIC AND WRESTLING EXPERIENCE AT MOUNTAIN HOME HIGH SCHOOL.

GABRIEL – When I first entered High School, I did not think that I would be where I am today. It seemed a lot bigger than I could have imagined. My brother and I actually attend a private school that doesn’t have sports, but allows us to compete at Mountain Home. Through time I adapted to the rigors of academics and sports…My experience has been very challenging, but rewarding at the same time. I am enjoying every second and am fortunate.

DANIEL – Unimaginable! I have had my trials and tribulations, but in the end, it has been a great experience. I am blessed!

HAVING HAD SOME GREAT SUCCESS AT THIS POINT IN YOUR WRESTLING CAREER, DESCRIBE YOUR TRAINING REGIMEN AND OUTLOOK FOR THE YEARS AHEAD.

GABRIEL – My training regimen has been to wrestle twice a day, an hour or two per session. Plus, I work out with weights at least three to four times a week. My outlook for the future years ahead is to continue training harder with the goal of becoming a collegiate level wrestler.

DANIEL – I like to keep myself on a tight schedule…train twice a day and work out with weights at least once a day during the regular week…resting on the weekends. I want to be the best of the best and make the Olympics someday. My short term goal is to compete at the collegiate level.

DO YOU HAVE AMBITIONS OF COMPETING IN COLLEGE OR INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS?

GABRIEL – Yes, I plan to compete at the collegiate level and possibly international wrestling, if the opportunity arises.

DANIEL – Yes, I want to compete at the collegiate level and someday win an Olympic Gold!

IS THERE AN OLYMPIAN OR COLLEGIATE LEVEL WRESTLER OR SOMEONE OUTSIDE OF THE SPORT OF WRESTLING THAT YOU WANT TO APIRE TO BE SOMEDAY?

GABRIEL – My father, Jose. I look up to him and want to be just like him.

DANIEL – I want to be like Jordan Burroughs. He’s an amazing athlete and wrestler.

WHAT LIFE LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED IN WRESTLING THAT APPLIES IN YOUR DAY-TO-DAY LIFE?

GABRIEL – Wrestling taught me to love the grind, the struggle, and punch through adversity. If you work hard enough, you will eventually achieve your goal.

DANIEL – In the face of adversity, I have learned to adjust and move forward. Learn from my failures. How to remain focused when the whole world is trying to distract you.

OUTSIDE THE SPORT OF WRESTLING, WHAT OTHER GOALS DO YOU HAVE IN LIFE?

GABRIEL – To be the best at everything I do in life, whether it’s being a father, my job, or sports.

DANIEL – I want to become a diesel mechanic and help my father with his business.

ONCE YOU ARE DONE COMPETING, DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO STAY INVOLVED WITH WRESTLING?

GABRIEL – Yes, I want to return to Mountain Home and coach at all levels.

DANIEL – Yes, definitely. I love coaching the younger kids and helping them grow and achieve their goals.

WHAT HOBBIES AND FAMILY FUNCTIONS DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST?

GABRIEL – I like to play chess with anybody. Plus, I enjoy going to church and helping with my community. Playing pickup basketball with my friends is one of my favorite things to do. I also enjoy detailing cars.

DANIEL – I love to play chess with my brother. I enjoy the strategy and challenges of chess. I also enjoy detailing our cars with my father and brother.

DO YOU HAVE A SAYING, PHILOSOPHY OR MOTTO THAT YOU LIVE BY?

GABRIEL – “If you want it, you have to be willing to do the work to achieve it.”

DANIEL – “Hard work pays off.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A YOUNG WRESTLER WANTING TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THE SPORT OF WRESTLING OR IN LIFE?

GABRIEL – Don’t be afraid to fail and give 100% to everything you do in life.

DANIEL – Hard work pays off. Be willing to do what other people are not, sacrifice and work hard, it will pay off in the end.

IF PROVIDED THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE AN IMPACT TO WRESTLING AT THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL, WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO IMPROVE OPPORTUNITIES AND INCREASE PARTICIPATION LEVELS?

GABRIEL – You have to make wrestling fun for the kids. It’s important to be more informative about the meaning of wrestling, the process of improving and growing in the sport, and what it take to be successful.

DANIEL – I would spend more time explaining the process of wrestling, how to adapt to the continuous challenges in presents, and how to be successful.