Utah student with Down syndrome wrestles at state tournament

by Carly Figueroa from Salt Lake City Fox 13 News:
TROPIC, Utah — When state championships are on the line, it’s hard to focus on other priorities.
But a group of Utah high school wrestlers made it clear they care about more than winning.
A boy with Down syndrome named Payton wrestled in a match that mattered as much as any championship final. It’s a feeling many high school wrestlers never get the chance to experience, winning a match at the state tournament.
Even the ref had tears in his eyes as 17-year-old Payton Johnson celebrated his win.
“He has a very special spirit of innocence and love and that touches people’s hearts,” said Payton’s coach, Carlon Johnson.
Payton’s parents said it’s a great atmosphere for their son to be in.
“It’s really awesome,” Payton’s mother, Tracy, said. “It’s really good to see people with disabilities be included, and I’m glad that people are excited about it.”
His teammates call him the backbone of the Bryce Valley wrestling team because he makes practice fun.