Before I did wrestling my sophomore year, I never had nay high school sports experience. For most of my high school career, I just wanted to focus on my studies and preparing myself for college. However, one of my friends asked me if I wanted to join with him, and, being the people pleaser I was (and still somewhat am), I obliged.
It was quite fun, at least before the season started. Every Wednesday for an hour after school, we would learn the basics to get a head start. However, I would not know what I got myself into until it truly began.
About three weeks into the season, after some complications with his girlfriend, he was forced to leave the school for two years. This also meant that I was mostly alone in my endeavor to get through the season. It was heartbreaking, but throughout the two hour practices after school and weekly meets, I was able to make a few friends.
However, as I came up to the end of the season, three wins on my belt, being the most improved for that year, I realized something very important: I needed to do things for myself, and not because of peer pressure. I caved into my friend’s wants because I did not want him to feel bad that I never really liked sports.
I also learned that no matter what, you have to keep going. There were many matches which I knew I would not win, but despite the pain and exhaustion, I perservered long into the match before I eventually was pinned. The coaches were great, too, also making us strive to become better through rigorous practices and new move information.
I feel like being in wrestling, even if for one season, was a great eye-opener for me. It allows me to reflect on a time where I was not best, and where hard work and grit has shown to get me, if I put my mind to it. It was an amazing experience.