By Emma Dalton, staff writer
Ranked 10th in the state with 44 wins and only five losses this season, wrestler Jose Rodriguez has earned himself a trip to the D1 state competition.
This season has been a memorable one for Rodriguez as he earned his 100th high school career win.
“Jose is an extremely talented individual,” said Assistant Coach Izaak Simar. “He catches on very quick and works hard to perfect his skills.”
Rodriguez has had a lot of practice to get to the skill level he is at today. Now on his sixth year of wrestling, he had his fair share of losses that have only made him strive for improvement.
“He has improved most this year in his ability to stay under control and focused against tough competition,” said head coach Jameel Massouh. “Jose is great now because he can use intense patience in matches and stay in control when the match is close rather than having to force a lead–– something that used to lead to loss.”
Rodriguez not only leads his team in skill but also leads as a team captain.
“As a leader, Jose leads by example with respect. I don’t think I have ever seen him break anyone down or show disrespect to anyone; That by itself has made him a strong leader on our team,” said Massouh.
Rodriguez, who also participates in football and track, has the athleticism to excel at anything he wants to participate in.
“ He has the best combination of strength, speed, endurance, and agility that I could ask of a wrestler,” explained Massouh.
However, Rodriguez does not take natural talent for granted.
“It’s not that Jose has all of this athleticism naturally, he is easily one of if not the hardest worker on the team and that is why he is such an athlete.”
Rodriguez doesn’t take all the credit for his success.
“I have great coaches and great practice partners who push me to be my best, while still having fun,” said Rodriguez.
Madie Kaelber scores her 1000th point. Photo by Tom Kenfield
At the state competition Rodriguez lost in the first round.
“I was not able to wrestle back,” he said.
However, the loss will not slow him down. Rodriguez reached his goal of state for the season and is ready to work harder next season to get there again.
“State was my goal for this high school season,” he said. “Next year my goal is to place.”