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Graves Was There At The Beginning

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By JEFFREY JONES, Tribune correspondent

Published: January 6, 2008

BRANDON - When Jim Graves first arrived at Brandon High in 1971, he had no clue he would be the catalyst that would help propel the Eagles into the record books.

In fact, the Mississippi native had no prior knowledge of the sport, never coaching or participating in wrestling before his arrival at the school.

"They needed a coach so I decided to help out," Graves said. "I had three or four kids on the team that were very knowledgeable, and I learned from them.

"I also read some books and went to a few clinics."

Although Graves' first year as Eagles' coach was a forgettable one (3-10), the 1972-73 squad quickly rebounded and went 12-1, losing only to Manatee in the last match of the season.

Then came the 1973-74 season, when Graves' team went 12-0-1, tying only Manatee, and thus beginning the longest winning streak in high school sports, which finally came to an end at dual match number 459 on Saturday night against Homestead South Dade.

For Graves, "The Streak" was especially meaningful, but not just for the recognition by the local and national media.

"It means a lot to the coaches because it shows all of the hard work that goes into the sport," Graves said. "And for the wrestlers and the school, it's something to take pride in."

Graves was the coach for nine years for the Eagles, collecting 75 wins during his tenure

And in 1977 under his guidance, the Eagles captured their first state title, which according to Graves was especially significant, because at the time there were no classifications, and all the good programs had to face each other.

Graves handed over the program to Russ Cozart in 1980, and the rest is history.

"Cozart's dedication is unbelievable," Graves said. "The program is what is today because of him."

Although the loss was disappointing, Graves was just glad to be in attendance.

"I was there to see it begin, and was there to see it end," Graves said. "I'm just glad I was alive to watch it."

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