The boys wrestling team is looking to finish on top as they head into the IHSA Regional tournament on Saturday, Feb 8.
According to Head Coach Terrence Kubski, improving and overall growth is a major goal for the team and any success from wrestlers is always great to see. Success has been noticed as seniors Anthony Minnito and Jack Bowen placed 3rd and 4th respectively at the SPC Conference meet last weekend.
“My goal is to place top 5 in the state,” senior Anthony Minnito said.
Minnito’s goal seems to be going well as he was awarded Male Athlete of the week during November of last year with two wins over opponents who were ranked in the top ten of the weight class in the state.
Mentality is just as important in wrestling as being physically stronger or faster than everyone else according to senior, Diego Cambray
“My primary goal going late into the season is to fight hard, I don’t want anyone to want it more than me. I want to bring a strong mindset to the mat every time I step on it,” Cambray said.
According to junior wrestler Ty Sabin, having that tough mentality is the best way to get through the rough points, whether that is losses, injury, conditioning, ect. The mental toughness is more than just goals; the athletes live by it and wish to instill that mentality in their teammates.
“My advice is don’t give up, work hard, and push the pace,” Sabin said.
Coach Kubski pushes that tough mental state in practice and believes that wrestling is a great way to teach life lessons.
“This sport is hard work but it is very rewarding. All your hard work is shown, and you can’t hide when you’re out there,” Kubski said.
Coach Kubski has special motivation for coaching wrestling. As an alumni, Plainfield Central Wrestling holds a special place in his heart.
“Since fifth grade I looked up to this program. Knowing what this program did for me I just want to give that back,” Kubski said.
The toughness of the sport builds a family bond and creates lasting friendships and memories.
“My favorite wrestling memory has to be the tournaments that we attended. We not only got to compete but we got to spend time and support each other as a team,” senior, Anil Rampersaud said.
