Wright-Patterson Airman set to represent DAF at 2025 Armed Forces Wrestling Championship Published March 6, 2025 By Ashley Richards 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- When Senior Airman Bryce Trimm first stepped onto a wrestling mat at 9 years old, he never imagined it would lead him to represent the Department of the Air Force against the nation’s best military wrestlers. Now, as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician with the 88th Air Base Wing, Trimm’s dedication to the sport has earned him a spot on the DAF wrestling team, where he will compete in the Armed Forces Wrestling Championship at Fort Bliss, Texas, on March 8-9, 2025. Trimm, who grew up in Michigan with a family steeped in competitive wrestling, followed in the footsteps of his father and brother, who also competed at high levels. His commitment to the sport began early, continuing through middle school, high school and the collegiate level. “I’ve trained my entire life, competing at various levels, and looking up to my family members who were all involved in wrestling,” he explained. “I always wanted to do the same.” Despite his love for the sport, Trimm’s college wrestling career was cut short due to the high tuition costs at the university he attended. However, Trimm always had the idea of serving in his mind with a family history of service, and it wasn’t long before he found a new opportunity within the Air Force. Trimm enlisted in 2022, but it wasn’t until recently that he learned the Air Force offered opportunities to wrestle at the Armed Forces level. Once he discovered the possibility, he was determined to pursue it. While going through his regular physical fitness training, Trimm noticed a flyer for DAF Sports in Jarvis Gym on base. Curiosity led him to check the list of available sports, and wrestling was among them. He scanned the QR code, filled out the application, and submitted it. At first, Trimm didn’t expect to be selected. He simply wanted to test his abilities and see if he could make the cut. “I began training again, and everything moved really fast,” Trimm explained. “I applied in October, was still training at that time, and then the tryouts came around. By the end of February, I had made the team.” To earn a spot, approved applicants had to compete in a multi-day trial camp held this year at Wright-Patterson AFB. During the camp, each participant was evaluated on technique, endurance, and match performance. “I just like to win,” Trimm said. “It's not just about competing. Whether in my job or in wrestling, I want to be the best. Wrestling is unique because it's a one-on-one competition. There’s no team to rely on, no one to help you, it's just you versus your opponent. It’s about who wants it more, and who can stay ahead mentally and physically.” He believes in constantly adapting to the flow of the match. “You can’t stop to think too long,” Trimm explained. “If you do, you’ll get taken down. You have to stay focused and always look for the next move, the next opening.” For Trimm, joining the DAF wrestling team was not only about continuing his personal journey in the sport but also about staying fit and pushing himself beyond his limits. “I’ve always hated the idea of not being physically fit, so wrestling is a way for me to stay in top shape,” he said with a smile. “Plus, I get to challenge myself against some of the best wrestlers from other branches. Hopefully, I can beat up on the other branches.” Trimm and the other selected Airmen and Guardians, from across the Air and Space Force, have been training here locally, at Wright-Patterson AFB, following strict workout regimens and practices to ensure they are ready to compete in the upcoming championship. Though the competition will be intense, Trimm remains confident. “There’s always some nervousness, but I walked in with the mindset that I was going to make the team. You can’t walk in with doubts. If you do, you’ve already lost.” With his competitive spirit and commitment to excellence, Trimm is ready for the challenge ahead at the Armed Forces Wrestling Championship and whatever comes next.