By Arik Espinosa, staff writer
Winter had come and within its freezing mist now comes a new season for a very eager wrestling team that is determined to make it to the top.
So far the team is doing well, even after most of its veterans moved on with their lives out of high school such as Eddie Nixon and Izaak Simar. There are some wrestlers that have managed to shine this season.
One of the highlights was when Jacob Simar took first place in Antioch, Ill., over Thanksgiving Break.
However there are some challenges that the team must conquer before they get to state.
For one, the team has fairly new wrestlers who must learn the rules and train to become strong and disciplined.
“The challenge is to help new wrestlers get used to the level of intensity that it takes,” said Jameel Massouh, Indian Trail High School Wrestling Coach.
Other challenges are the wrestlers dealing with tough matches and maintaining a certain weight.
“Maintain weight and going to through the tournament,”said Jose Rodriguez, captain of the varsity team.
Before each match, the wrestler goes through a series of preparations to keep his mind focused.
“I listen to my music, and practice my shots,” said Rodriguez.
Wrestling means a lot to the team.
“It’s a sport that you have to be dedicated to and give your 100 percent every match,” said Rodriguez.
Each wrestler learns self-discipline, life lessons, and the meaning of hard work as they train together to become all that they can be.
“Not everyone can be a wrestler. They have to be explosive, have strength, and be good at all areas of physical fitness,” Coach Massouh said.
After last year’s season, the team ended with a 3-4 record in the Southeast Conference. This season, the team has set new goals and raised expectations to make it all the way.
“We would like to get to the State Tournament series, it’s a major goal. Another is to work with our newer players and help them improve,” said Massouh.
Players have their eyes on a similar path.
“Get over 40 wins and make it to state,” said Jose Rodriguez.