MARSHALL, Mizz. — The North Surry Greyhound wrestling team prides itself on hard work and a blue collar attitude. One of the grappler’s most indicative of that persona, Chris Murray, is now evidence of its success.

Murray recently signed a letter of intent to wrestle for Missouri Valley College next season to fulfill his lifelong dream to become a college athlete.

In high school Murray participated in wrestling, football and baseball but stood out most for coach Eric Jessup on the mat.

“Chris is a great person and he’s a real blue collar type wrestler,” Jessup said. “He’s one that every coach likes. He comes to practice and would run through a brick wall for you. In four years he did everything I asked and did it as hard as he could. He’s not fancy on the mat, he’s just one of those hard workers.”

Chris is the son of Charles and Beth Murray of Mount Airy and was a four-year starter for the Greyhounds.

Murray, who wrestled at the 135-pound range during his career, was a two-time all-conference performer and a state individual qualifier in his junior season of 2009.

He picked up his 100th career win at West Wilkes in December and finished his stint at North Surry with 127 wins, good enough to earn him a spot on the top 10 Greyhound career win list.

“We are excited to get Chris in the fold with the team,” MVC head coach Mike Machholz said. “We expect him to compete at the 141 or 149 weight class. He will likely red-shirt so he can get ready to compete for the varsity spot in the 2011-12 season.”

Murray said he too is excited to have the opportunity to continue his career on the mat.

“It feels great that I can go four more years of wrestling,” Murray said. “It’s been a dream to go to college since I was little and ever since my freshman year I’ve wanted to go on a wrestling scholarship. It’s an opportunity to get out and explore the rest of the world besides staying in Mount Airy. I’m looking forward to it.”