Caleb Mariakis

2026 Inductee

Caleb Mariakis’s legacy at Ridgeland High School is defined by relentless dominance on the wrestling mat, unparalleled academic excellence, and unwavering character. As a cornerstone of Ridgeland Athletics, Caleb built a staggering high school career record of 196-26, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished grapplers in school history.

A two-time All-American, Caleb was a fixture on the podium at the state tournament all four years of his high school career. He captured third place in the state as a freshman and fifth place as a sophomore before cementing his dominance as a back-to-back State Runner-Up in his junior and senior campaigns.

Caleb’s achievements extended far beyond athletics. Highly respected by his peers and teachers, he was voted Faculty Representative and was named the Ridgeland High School FCA Athlete of the Year. In the classroom, he was a model student-athlete. He was a perennial member of the President’s List, graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA from the Honors Academy, and finished 5th overall in the Class of 2015.

Following his graduation, Caleb took his talents to the collegiate level. He began his collegiate career at NCAA Division I West Virginia University, where he wrestled as a freshman, earned a spot on the Dean’s List, and served on the FCA Leadership Team. He then transferred to Reinhardt University (2016–2019), where he became a foundational trailblazer for their wrestling program. Caleb was the first recruit to commit to Reinhardt and forever etched his name in their record books by winning the first wrestling match in the school’s history.

As a three-year team captain at Reinhardt, Caleb led by example. His 2018 season was particularly remarkable: he was an AAC Conference Runner-Up, earned Academic All-American honors, and was ranked #18 in the country. He concluded his collegiate wrestling career with a strong 41-28 record.

Today, Caleb continues to lead and inspire off the mat. He currently serves his community as the Director of Student Ministries at LaFayette First Baptist Church, carrying forward the same dedication, faith, and leadership that made him a Hall of Fame athlete.