Wrestlers prepare for district with two duals this week

Two duals in two days. That is a grueling schedule for any week, but for the wrestlers headed to district next week, the events were just a warm-up.

The wrestling team won against College Station Wednesday night, and then traveled to face the Huntsville team on Thursday.

“Winning last night (against Huntsville) helped give my confidence as we head into district,” junior Sammy Seppanen said. “I have beaten him before. I am ready for next week.”

It takes more than strength to win on the mat. Focus and intensity is also key.

“The matches were so intense,” sophomore Janice Maldonado said. “Sylar (Murillo), our captain faced their captain. When he competes he is so intense. He goes all in. And Ezrah’s match was awesome to watch. She wrestled up, so the girl was bigger than her. It was great.”

photo or infographic by Janice Maldonado
READY TO REMATCH. Trying to win the match with a pin, junior Sammy Seppanen competes against a Hornet wrestler. “The match gave me confidence going into district next week,” he said. “I want a first place at district.”
photo or infographic by Janice Maldonado
COACHING FROM THE EDGE OF THE MAT. Cheering on his teammates, junior Josh Thomas gives his best advice.
photo or infographic by Janice Maldonado
PIN IT TO WIN IT. In a rematch against a tough Huntsville opponent, freshman Yabi Paulino attempts a pin. “I had lost to her before,” Paulino said. “It meant so much to have my team yelling for me.”
photo or infographic by Janice Maldonado
FACE TO FACE. Staring down her opponent, junior Ezrah Perez starts her match against a bigger wrestler. “I was really nervous because she was bigger,” she said. “My coaches told me just to go for it and I did.” Garcia wrestled up for the match.