Grandview High School buzzed with anticipation as the wrestling team was preparing to take on the state championship.

“As a team, we put in the necessary amount of work to be ready for state. With most of the guys placing at states and maybe going to the finals, we’re ready,” Sophomore Gunner Lopez said.

 Grades are an important part of preparing too. You must be eligible to be able to place in states and have a chance to advance to the finals.

“I try to turn in my work during class, then focus on wrestling after school. Both are incredibly exhausting in their own ways, but I work hard on both and get it done,” Senior Nehemiah Quintana said.

Leading this team to become the way they are is done by head coach Ryan Budd, who builds and contributes to the team’s success to the players’ great sense of unity, skill development, dedication, and discipline.

“My coaches have played a major part in shaping me into the wrestler I am today, making me both physically and mentally stronger, helping me become a top-tier competitor within my weight class,” Quintana said.

In wrestling, mental toughness is equally as vital as physical toughness. A negative viewpoint might obscure your judgment and make you feel like you’re wasting your time and energy.

“My biggest problems have been dealing with breaking my ankle and dealing with the mental component of wrestling, which requires you to be in your right mind before taking the mat,” Lopez said.                                                                                

Setting and pursuing objectives can be essential for maintaining a positive mentality and staying motivated, it provides a clear sense of direction and purpose.  Having goals can encourage personal development, and establish a cycle of continuous improvement.

“What motivates me to go and compete at state is that it’s been a dream of mine to win.” Lopez said “Ever since I was little, I have been confident in the work that I put in,

With their sights set on a state championship, the varsity wrestling team was actively laying the groundwork for success, a story that promises to live on and thrive in the pages of Grandview’s athletic legacy.

“As a wrestler, pursuing a state championship is an exciting task. Our wrestling team is working hard to achieve success. We train hard, test our boundaries, and aim to leave a lasting legacy.” Junior Marcus Nesbitt said.