Freeman, Crum named December 2024 Athletes of the Month at PBHS

The Mules Booster Club has named Zoë Freeman and Branson Crum of Poplar Bluff High School the Athletes of the Month for December, presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.

Crum, a junior wrestler, placed third out of 16 student-athletes in the Parkway South Tournament and sixth out of 16 at Bring the Hammer in Cabot, Arkansas for a career record of 53-35 thus far.

“Branson Crum is one of the hardest working wrestlers in the wrestling room,” said Adam Vincent, his coach. “As a junior, Branson is a leader during conditioning, drills and live wrestling. Branson will wrestle any member of the team regardless of weight difference, showing that [he] is pound-for-pound one of the best athletes and wrestlers on the team.”

Freeman, a senior wrestler, remains undefeated at 8-0 this season for a career record of 116-11. During state competition, Freeman placed fifth as a freshman and sophomore, respectfully, and advanced to third as a junior.

“Zoë is one of the best girl wrestlers Poplar Bluff has ever had (with) the most wins in Poplar Bluff Girls Wrestling program history,” said Vincent, her coach. “Even with the numerous injuries Zoë has experienced, especially at the beginning of this season, she has proven her ability to compete at the highest level in every facet. Zoë is attending Cornell College next year to continue her wrestling career.”