Senior Hunter Elliott has spent much of his high school career going above and beyond on the wrestling mat, earning his title of 120lb state champion this year.
As his senior year comes to an end, along with his final high school wrestling season, Elliott wishes to pass on his wisdom to younger athletes.
How did you get into the sport?
“I got into wrestling because of my dad, he got me into it from a young age.”
What drives your commitment to the sport?
“What drives my commitment to the sport is my passion for it. I love the challenge and physicality and all [of] the work you have to put in to win.”
How long have you been wrestling?
“I’ve been wrestling for 8 years.”
How do you balance school and a social life on top of wrestling?
“Balancing school, wrestling, [and my] social life can be hard. I just try to stay on top of my school work and limit distractions, so I can wrestle and any extra time I’m not in school or wrestling is when I get to have my social life.”
How do you battle negativity regarding the sport/negative self-talk?
“Negativity never really bothered me in wrestling. You just have to zone out what others might be saying and focus on yourself, and you have to have the mindset that everyone is beatable so you don’t doubt yourself.
What are your plans for a future in wrestling?
“As I finish up my senior year, I plan on wrestling in college at Division 2 Fairmont State University.”
Do you have any advice that you’d like to share with young, aspiring athletes?
“To young athletes, I would say never doubt yourself and give it your all, there’s nothing that can stop you from being great.”
