Eric Casula Opens Up on Wrestling, Family, and Future Goals

Stillwater, OK— Eric Casula’s wrestling journey began when his dad asked if he wanted to try the sport, inspired by his uncle who was a high school head coach. “I said yes and never looked back,” Casula said, marking the start of what would become a dedicated and resilient wrestling career.

Placing third at the Oklahoma state championships as a freshman was a proud moment, but the heartbreak of falling just short as a runner-up the following year taught valuable lessons: “I got upset in semis and I was heartbroken,” he shared. Yet, he learned to embrace the challenge, realizing, “most people would love to be in the position I am,” motivating him to grow and improve.

Winning two Premier National League (PNL) Championships reinforced Casula’s confidence. “It feels good but going into it I know my wrestling ability’s and I trust my coaches that they have prepared me so I know that’s what I’m supposed to do,” he said. His title as USA Wrestling Fargo All-American also cemented his mindset, especially the mental toughness gained through challenging weight cuts. “It’s a thought process that not everybody is doing this and it kind of gives me an edge and that confidence.”

Training at the Cowboy Wrestling Club in Stillwater played a crucial role in his development. “The coaches and environment that is there is unbelievable; it’s hard not to get better with the support system that is there,” he acknowledged, calling it “the best decision I’ve made in my wrestling career.”

Casula’s commitment to the University of Oklahoma is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. “Growing up I’ve always dreamed about going there... the coaches and teammates that are there are great. I’m happy to be joining the family chasing NCAA champions,” he said enthusiastically. His decision came after an official visit that confirmed OU as the perfect fit—a place that felt like home with beautiful campus and impressive facilities.

Reflecting on his performance at the 2025 Super 32, known as the toughest preseason wrestling tournament, Casula was realistic and reflective. “I didn’t do a bad job. I had some things to come back on but that’s the point—I stepped on the line and laid it all out there.” He identified the key area where he fell short: “Capitalizing on my chances to finish shots and ice the match when it’s close and crucial.” Losing a close first match taught him patience and adapting under pressure: “It just teaches me to be more patient on my offense even if it throws off my game plan... knowing my gameplay.”

His experience at the Super 32 is now shaping his preparation for college wrestling: “You’ll see a lot of these kids at the next level. It definitely points out where you need to get better and evolve.”

While his roots were at Westmoore High School, Casula credits moving to Stillwater High as pivotal for his wrestling and personal growth. “Westmoore was good, I had a lot of my friends there, but for wrestling I had to make a change... that’s been the most beneficial move I’ve made.” Managing school and wrestling, he admits that “turning work in on time and not procrastinating” is the biggest challenge, but he has learned to balance both demands.

His biggest supporter is his dad, complemented by a strong network of Oklahoma wrestling coaches who believe in him. “When they all want to see you succeed, it’s just a great coaching staff and environment that I’m very grateful for,” Casula said. Overcoming adversity has been a theme, especially after breaking his back at age 12, an injury that still reminds him of his limits but also fuels his work ethic. “A lot of rest and recovery is how I got over it.”

Casula admits to moments where he wanted to quit but rebounds quickly: “After like 2 or 3 days I’m ready to get back on the mat.” His mental approach is simple: “Just gotta keep going, keep practicing and get yourself out of that little funk and find ways to enjoy the process.”

Wrestling has taught him a deeper life lesson: “It’s definitely been all the losses and setbacks that I have had, but it has definitely been for the better because it has shaped me into the person I am today.” His family and coaches keep him motivated even when he doesn’t feel like pushing, showing the power of strong support systems.

To manage competition pressure, Casula reminds himself “I trained for this and I believe in myself and that it’s a privilege to be under pressure.” His short-term goal is to win Fargo, with the long-term dream of becoming a national champion at OU within five years. He aspires to be a wrestler and person “that people wanna be around and enjoy watching” and wants to be remembered for being “electrifying on the mat and fun to be around.”

Focusing on areas for improvement, he notes the need to sharpen his top game to compete at the college level. Outside wrestling, Casula likes to golf (recently beating his dad), hang out with friends and family, bowl, and simply decompress. He’s still figuring out stress coping but trusts his coaches and training to carry him through.

Beyond the mat, Casula envisions a future as an orthopedic surgeon, blending his passion for athletics and academics. His advice to younger wrestlers facing adversity is succinct and powerful: “Just embrace the adversity because it’s gonna shape you into your future self and you’ll be very grateful for it.”

Looking back, Casula credits his success to understanding “that wins and losses don’t define you as a person... it’s all about evolving and growing yourself.” His journey reflects the spirit of Oklahoma wrestling: hard work, resilience, and community support, all driving a young athlete with a bright future ahead.