A hot gymnasium, mats laid over tile, with an abundance of competitors; this is where senior Jakob Martin thrives. Since the beginning of his wrestling career in kindergarten, Martin has continued to show passion for the sport, each year improving from the previous. Though his final season may be bittersweet, it will close a memorable chapter in his life.
“It is important to me because I’ve done it my whole life, and I have made many relationships and memories within it through the years. I do not plan on pursuing wrestling in college; if anything, it might turn into a hobby after I’m done competing,” Martin said.
Good work can equate to leadership roles, which can advance team members or players greatly. Jakob was given an influential role early on, and because of that he has been looked up to by other members.
“Jakob has been a team captain for the last two years now. As a coaching staff, we have picked him as captain because he has leadership qualities. He works hard and practices, he’s coachable, he’s accountable, and overall, that leads him to success. For those reasons, we picked him as a captain. I also believe in being coachable, receiving critiques, and being able to implement them, which are things that Jakob does well,” wrestling coach Beau Yineman said.
While self-improvement is a common focus in sports, helping others along the way is much more beneficial. Friendships can easily build from season-to-season, and by having team members supporting one another, confidence can grow, along with skill.
“Every year that he (Jakob) gets better, I get a lot better, mainly because we practice together every single day. So, the better he gets, the better I get,” junior Benjamin Green said.
Practice can lead to enhancement, and by continuously conditioning and going out for the same sport year after year, excellence can be achieved. If Martin could say anything to his freshman self about his wrestling, it would be words of encouragement, something that all athletes should hear often.
“Work even harder; you are better than you think you are. Just because kids are older and bigger, that doesn’t mean you can’t win. They are no different than you,” Martin said.
If one member succeeds, the full team will benefit in their own ways. Whether by a small win or a tournament sweep, each team member can find ways to improve and hone their skills, making the team as a whole better.
“When Jakob gets a big accomplishment, and he’s already had a lot, I think it kind of uplifts the team in a way. Especially because he and I are team captains, when a team captain has a big accomplishment, people start looking up to you more,” Green said.
