Chapter 2: Paul Keysaw Creating an Impact

Coach Keysaw has had a tremendous influence on my life. He has shown me not to give up on my dreams, which I have learned through pure example and excellence. 

Around the end of the spring semester of 2019, I lost my job and apartment and had no financial support to afford another semester at Fresno City College. I remember going to coach Keysaw and sharing with him that I did not want to return to South LA. I shared with him that my dream was to be here. While he sat in his chair in his office, he reassured me that if my dream were to be here, he would do all he could to keep me in Fresno.

One day, while I sat at the Old Administration Building, the world seemed uncertain, knowing I had nowhere to live, most likely heading back home to live with family. At the OAB, coach Keysaw passes by and tells me he has good news to share. He said, “I talked to Josue Cruz, your high school coach, and Yero Washington from Beat the Streets LA. I shared with them about your current situation, and they have raised funds for you to stay another semester. All you need to focus on now is competing and getting good grades at school. I believe the funds should be enough to help you get by with food as well.” That was the most grateful I ever felt in my life. I stood up and hugged Coach Keysaw. I felt so grateful for Coach Cruz and Yero Washington.

His impact on the wrestling community has impacted the lives of many other people as he has done with mine. 

Hey, podcast fans! I've been away for a while, but I'm working hard to bring you some amazing conversations. I've been thinking about the direction of the podcast and want to ensure that each episode is meaningful and engaging. To bridge the gap, I'm excited to introduce a summer series called "My Summer of 2024." Stay tuned for the first episode coming soon! Thanks for listening!