From waking up bright and early for practice, to long hours of conditioning. Wrestling is a sport that takes grit and determination. Both of those qualities are shown on the mat through seniors Matthew Maldonado, Adrian Pellot and Marlone Kirksy. All previously qualifiers for state last year. Maldonado, who placed 6th, hopes to make it back to Indianapolis.

“My goals for the season are definitely, make it down to state again and not only place higher than I did last year, but try to win it,” he said. 

However, wrestling isn’t just a winter sport, some of the athletes train during the offseason, some competing in tournaments other than state titles. Purdue commit Pellot fits this description; he was runner-up for the state title last season.

“My main goal for this upcoming season is to win a state title along with a few other tournaments this season like Al Smith and Lake County,” Pellot said. 

All athletes know the term “conditioning.” However, wrestlers may perceive it differently. Wrestling is a sport where both your mobility and strength is important. 

At MHS, wrestling is widely known for its conditioning. 

“In season, our practices are tough. I think they could be the toughest of the sports here. We always have guys from other sports coming in and realise how much a difference wrestling conditioning is from other sports,” Maldonado said. “The practices are tough and long. You need to stay focused and push through the thirst, hunger, and being tired. In the end you will see it was all for a reason and worth it.”

Part of being a great athlete is being a great leader. Someone who can help others by paving them a path in the right direction. State runner up Pellot believes their team can go far with great mindsets. 

“I want to lead this group by being an example and winning a state title that way these guys can see like you don’t have to be superhuman to win and push my team to be strong mentally and physically,” Pellot said. 

The wrestling team is already 8-4 and are looking for more. As the season progresses, athletes hope to improve their abilities. Both Maldonado and Pellot have an uncapped ceiling for growth. 

“I feel I need to work on my feet and get to shots and finish. I think that’s a big deal because that’s how you score a lot of points but a really big thing this season is my turning people on top and scoring points,” Pellot said. 

Maldonado also shares a similar take. 

“I plan to achieve this by working hard in and out of practice and putting in whatever work is needed. I think I need to work on just pushing myself more in matches knowing I’m going to last longer than the other guy.”