Jan. 14, 2008
Senior wrestler Randy Oates is one of Mason's elite student-athletes. Originally from Owings, Maryland, Randy has held an active interest in two things since grade school: wrestling and pursuing a career in athletic training. Following a high school appearance at the Maryland/Virginia All-Star Meet, Randy was recruited to wrestle at Mason on a scholarship. Randy has had an impressive athletic career here at Mason and this spring will graduate with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. Throughout his career at Mason he has been on the Athletic Director's Honor Roll and he received the CAA Commissioner's Academic Award in his junior year.
Weighing in at 174 pounds, Randy is a key contributor to the George Mason wrestling team, posting a 65-51 record. His 65 wins rank him 22nd all-time in school history. During his freshman season in 2004-05, Randy immediately earned time on the mat and was named to the CAA All-Rookie Team for his efforts. As a sophomore, he ranked third on the team in wins with 21. Last season, Randy was first on the team with 12 dual match wins and set personal bests with nine falls and two technical falls. This year, Randy hopes to capture his first CAA title of his career and is off to a strong start in 2007-08, with a 14-6 overall record. This season as a team, Mason looks to create a solid presence at the NCAA National Wrestling Championship in St. Louis, Missouri.
Off the wrestling mat, Randy is active in community service. Every year, Randy and the wrestling team take a leadership role in the Aimee Willard Memorial 5K held on Mason's Fairfax campus. They dedicate their time to help with the operations of the event as well as recruiting other Mason athletic teams and student-athletes to participate. Randy feels it is a good cause and an excellent way to bring together the University, and in particular, the athletic department. Additionally, with the help of the Mason wrestling coaching staff, Randy works clinics for youth wrestling teams as well as helping out with his former high school team in Maryland.
In his final semester, Randy will be interning at Orthopedic Medicine of Alexandria. Following graduation, he plans to carry his internship through the summer before he returns to Mason as a graduate student in the physical therapy program. He would ultimately love to have a career helping student-athletes like himself.
