A former Ronan teacher and wrestling coach recently took the reigns as the head wrestling coach at Eastern Oregon University.

Dustyn Azure, who is originally from Poplar, coached and taught in Ronan from 2006 until 2012. He then moved to Havre, where he worked on a degree and became an assistant coach for the Montana State University Northern wrestling team. Part of his job with the Lights was recruitment.

During his time in Ronan, he coached four wrestlers who would then follow him to Havre and wrestle for the Lights. Among them was Cameron Neiss, who went on to become a three-time All-American and two-time Academic All-American for the Lights.

It only made sense then that Azure would be interested in picking up Cameron’s little brother, Jared.

Jared Neiss recently took top honors at the Class B state wrestling tournament in his weight class.

Azure said he saw the potential in Neiss. “When you look at his family... his brother and dad both won championships. He has the qualities you look for in an athlete. He works hard and is a good kid,” Azure said.