Ray K. Erku / Post Independent Right before suiting up to play one of the biggest games of his high school career, Rifle senior Bryce Rowley was determined to do better. “I think it’s funny because like I said right before the state game, I’m like, ‘Hey, I took fifth in state wrestling, at least let me say that I took first at something,” Rowley said. The 18-year-old varsity athlete and quarterback played an integral part in assisting the Bears to their heart-stopping 35-34 3A state championship win over The Classical Academy on May 15. But it’s the preceding ride that got Rowley to where he is today that’s most notable.