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Focus on the Wrestler
Taylor Songer Cameron County
1. When did you start wrestling? How many years have you been involved?
I started wrestling practice when I was in pre-school and then started competing in JO wrestling tournaments when I was in kindergarten, overall 13 years.
2. Who are some of the people that helped you achieve your goals so far?
All of my coaches have helped me achieve the goals that I have obtained so far from JO to varsity, especially Terry Stemmler, Scott Baker, and Larry McGraw. Terry Stemmler has always been there to help me, especially during freestyle and Greco, in the summer when no one else on the team was participating in that form of wrestling. Scott Baker has been my coach for many years, and I have learned a lot from him. Larry McGraw taught me many things in my first year of varsity. I would also like to thank Don Schoonover, Rick Leitzel, Aaron Rendos, and Terry Schwab for allowing me to participate in their practices during the summer. Finally, I would like to thank my family for always being there for me.
3. Do you see yourself as a coach someday?
I am unsure, maybe after I have graduated from college and settle down.
4. What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass on to the next generation of wrestlers? Who have become your biggest influences on and off the mat?
Wrestling is not an easy sport, if you stick to it and work hard everyday, good things will come. Wrestling will make you become a better person in many ways. My biggest influences are the many great wrestlers who have wrestled in the past. Wrestlers like Doug McGraw, Luke and Seth Fragale, and Adam and John Bickford. They inspired me to be like them because they all worked hard on and off the mat. They became the perfect role model for me growing up.
5. What are your future plans for college, and do they include wrestling? Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable?
I plan on attending Penn State majoring in Finance. My biggest accomplishment was when I won my first tournament. I had worked hard all week and realized the harder I worked the better I would get. I also had to start working harder to get to the next level.
6. How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person?
It has made me into a person who works hard and takes pride in what they are doing. It has made me mentally tougher. Wrestling has given me the ability to overcome tough challenges and keep raising my goals.
7. What are your wrestling goals for this year?
My goals this year are to get to States and to achieve 100 career wins. I would also like to get 35 wins before Districts.
8. You have had a successful career, but you have not obtained your goal of placing at States. How important is it for for you to make it to the big show?
States is the most important goal I have. It is essentially what I have been working towards for 13 years.
9. I know you are also a successful student. Do you feel being successful in the classroom translates to success on the mat?
I believe success on the mat leads to success in the classroom. Someone who can take all the demands from wrestling practice and succeed should be able to do reasonably well in school. The harder you push yourself, the better you will do.
(ed. Note: Taylor was selected to the 2007 Pennsylvania All-Academic Wrestling Team)
10. What other interests and activities do you have away from the mat?
I also like to play football, soccer, hang out with my friends, and lift weights.
CHAD SCHATZ CAMERON COUNTY
When did you start wrestling/ how many years?
Chad: I started wrestling when I was six years old, so about twelve years.
Who are some of the people that helped you achieve your goals "so far"?
Chad: First off , God, and then my parents. All of my wrestling coaches through the years, they have all been great.
Do you see yourself as a coach someday?
Chad: I would love to coach someday. I love the sport and it would give me a chance to give something back.
What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass on to the next generation of wrestlers?
Chad: That it is a great sport. It keeps you in shape, teaches you about discipline and sacrifice, and makes you tough.
Who have been some of your biggest influences on and off the mat?
Chad: First my parents, they started it all and have been there for me. All of my coaches have been great, and everybody around me has supported me and been there through it all. I thank all of them for rooting me on through the years.
What are your future plans for college, and do they include wrestling?
Chad: I do plan on going to college, and will play football and wrestle. I haven't made up my mind on a course of study yet.
Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable?
Chad: Probably the first time I made it to Regionals when I was seeded last. I came away with third place. Nobody expected me to do it. That was really exciting for me, to surpass the expectations that others had for me.
How has wrestling impacted your life, and how do you see it helping you after wrestling?
Chad: It has definitely taught me a good work ethic, and taught me how to keep in shape. It has helped to keep focus not just on wrestling and football, but on other things in my life.
Chad Schatz tribute video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c72S2QlgIEg
Interview by Randy Frey
COLBY PISANI
1. We have watched you wrestle since a very young age and you may have instantly entered the state competition level when you began wrestling....Have you found it hard to maintain that level of expectations throughout the years?
Yes, I have because the competition continues to get harder and there are more hard working and dedicated wrestlers working to be on top. That is why I have to work twice as hard as them to be the better wrestler.
2. You have had a successful career, did you expect a career as successful as yours has been? I have expected it but its not as successful as I would have liked it to be and one reason is because I haven't earned my goals yet.
3. I always "don" names on many wrestlers and I always thought that you were "Mr. Business", all business, strictly tough wrestling looking for the pin or decisions, your pretty serious or even toned about everything and if your mad about anything you always are harder on yourself than anyone one of us would ever be.......always searching for the next goal in life.
What are your thoughts leading up to a match, during and after?
My thoughts before the match are basic, that I will win.... and knowing my opponent. During the match, I try to keep a clear head and not let anything get to me. When the match is over, I might be upset because I know that I didn't wrestlilng to the ability that I can.
4. Your two year record is amazing, What do you attribute your success to? I attribute my success to hard work and sacrafice because that's what it takes to be on top and also to My Wrestling Family (one person in particular). (Sunday practices, other extra practices outside of our regular season practices, giving up holidays to attend training camps, summer camps and teams, etc...)
5. It had to be a great feeling being able to have little brother on the varsity team with you this year. How does it feel to end your high school career along side your little brother Garet and I'm going to put you on the spot now; where do you see Garet excelling to in his wrestling career? It feels great to have my brother on the team because even though there's the Elker Team, Him and I pretty much act as a single team. Well's it's up to Garet where he wants to be because I can see him winning the State Gold, but the thing is, he has to want it, work hard and earn it himself.
6. You made a decision not to wrestle your freshman year, did it make your hunger twice as much entering your sophomore year?
Yes, my hunger was always there, but when I was unable to step out on the made made it greater..my inability to wrestle was greatly due to my medical issues and my having had to have surgery in Dec. Entering my sophomore year, I was ready and nothing was going to stop me from making my appearance, I had worked hard all the summer prior preparing.
7. What two matches stand out the most in your mind...one loss and one win matches?
My one loss that stands out the most was when I got whooped by Brad Pataky at Tool City my sophomore year, it taught me how much more I needed to work to make it on my journey to the top. My win was actually this past season at Regionals, I was not even favored to make it out and I won it! Pinning Stewart made me realize that my hard work and determination was starting to pay off.
8. How and when were you introduced to wrestling?
I was introduced to wrestling at an 8 and under soccer game. Rick Leitzel spotted me and asked my mom if I had ever wrestled before and wanted me to try it. My mom was very hesitant, but allowed me to try it and I have been hooked ever since.
9. How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person?
Wrestling has taught me great lessons of discipline and hard work will pay off in the end. It has also given me many opportunities that I would not have been possible: USA Teams, National Teams and Tours, etc along with building great friendships along the way.
10. Do you think you may consider coaching in the future?
I do believe that I will become a coach of wrestling just because it is a big part of my life. I also have two younger brothers that I enjoy helping, Garet and Drew.
11. What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass onto the next generation of wrestlers?
Never say "I Can't", because hard work and determination will prevail.
12. Who has been some of the biggest influences on and off the mat?
One of my biggest influences is my mom, because of the work she does for my family to give us the best of things.
Rick Leitzel, is another. He has not only been my coach since this all started but he has also been a great friend.
There are so many great wrestlers like John Hughes that I have always looked up to.
13. What are your future plans for college? if so: study of interest?
To wrestle for Penn State and to Major in Architectural Engineering.
14. I know, you are also a successful soccer player, is there a possible collegiate wrestling career or other sports?
Yes, my plans are to wrestle in college and to compete with the best....this is one of my goals.
15. Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable?
Winning the Matthew Cartwright Tournament, because of the dedication to my best friend Matt.
16. What does your diet consist of during the season?
Pretty much anthing except junk food and soda. I eat lots of fruits, vegtables, chicken and beef and I drink lots of water and gatorade. 17. Do you do any extra personal training on you own and if so what does it consist of?
Yes, I always try to do extra conditioning and working on sharpening my skills. I enjoy wrestling in the summer doing Freestyle and Grecco which gives me alot of extra competion and camp opportunities. I attend as many camps and clinics as I can and I belong to the Elite Team at Penn State, which gives me the opportunity to train with wrestlers from all over.
18. What are some other activities and extra curricular activities do you participate and why you enjoy them?
I enjoy playing soccer to stay in shape, but I really enjoy working on my truck. I have a 1986 GMC that I rebuilt and painted. I have enjoyed this because of the hands on learning through the whole process of tearing it apart, repairing, working with body puddy to painting it and detailing. It has been a fun thing.
19. Are there any rules you would like to see changed and if so what?
Yes, the new body fat and hydration testing, it's pointless, kids are still and always going to lose weight in wrestling. They will never stop this.
**20. Who in your opinion is the greatest wrestler from D9, PA State High School, College and International Levels?
Bruno Iordifo, in my heart is the champ of D9. In college he was workign his way to the top. He will always be remembered because of his class and the love for the sport of wrestling.
20. In high school, the Greatest All Time Wrestler would have to be John Hughes and at the International Level would be Tom Brands. I chose them because of the intensity they bring to the mat and both have been to the top of their goals. When I wrestle I try to bring that same type of intensity.
21. What are your wrestling goals this year and future years? To be on the top of the podium at States and to never stop being on top. I work everyday for nothing less.
22. Is there anyone at this time you would like to give thanks to?
I would like to give thanks to my family for being so supportive through my years of wrestling, mostly my mom. I would also like to thank "Our Wrestling Family" for everything through out the years and to Rick Leitzel for never giving up on me.
Paragraph from Parents: I don't even know were to begin......but to Thank Colby for being the person that he has become not only on the mat but in his everyday life and academics, I am so very Proud of You. As Mr. Frazier has referred Colby to "Mr. Business", he couldnt have described Colby any better. From the onset Colby has always been a perfectionist giving 100% of himself in every aspect on his life and what paths he would take. For those of you that know Colby also know that he is a very shy and private person not wanting attention brought to himself, win lose or a any of his life accomplishments. As intense as he truly is on the mat, he is a very humble person. He believes once he has completed one of his life goals he needs to keep working harder and focus on the next. All of Colby's accomplishments not only with wrestling but with his academics, etc are a credit to himself......he has taught me so many life lessons on Parenting, I hope he has enjoyed the ride as much as I have and am looking forward to what the future bring.
DAN BLAIR SMETHPORT
You have had a very successful career, did you expect your career to be as successful as yours has been?
Not really because I wasn't too good in JO's, I always had good winning seasons but
never wrestled that well in Sectionals and Districts and seemed to come up short a lot.
It's hard to believe your a senior already, if you could relive one Year out of your life which would it be and why? My junior year, because we had one of the most successful teams in school history and my individual season was very good but I wish I could wrestle it again to change the outcome for the
better.
What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work, the love of the sport, and my highly competitive attitude.
What two matches stand out the most in your mind..one loss and one win matches?
The one win was probably in 8th grade when I won junior high districts as the 3 seed avenging an earlier season loss in the finals.
The loss would probably be last year, with my loss to Cody Kelly of Reynolds in the Regional semis. I was up by a point going into the third but ended up losing by one and then the next week he was PIAA runner-up, that really stunk.
How and when were you introduced to wrestling?
It was in first grade and JO sign-ups were announced at school over the PA system and it sounded interesting so I asked my parents about it and they agreed and my dad took me up to a practice. I remember just watching the first practice and didn't care about the wrestling but they got to run and play games and I was a little 6 year old full of energy and it seemed like a good fit and I've been at it ever since.
How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person?
I've learned that you get out of things what you put into them. Pretty much any goal can be obtained, you just have to work at it as hard as you can and good things will happen.
Do you think you may consider coaching in the future?
Definitely, I love learning more about the sport: stances, shots, throws, rides, pinning combos, escapes, and most coaches say that they learn just as much in their coaching careers as their years as a wrestler.
What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass onto the next generation of wrestlers?
Listen to your coaches! I've been blessed to have some very good ones in my years like Coach Schwab, Coach Stephen, and Coach Shunk. They've usually been at the same place your at before and if they haven't they've seen many that have and can give you good advice. And they are right over 95% of the time.
Who have been some of your biggest influences on and off the mat?
Well no one in particular, a lot of people actually. All my coaches I've had through the years, all the clinicians and counselors at the camps I've been to in my life, pretty much anyone who has ever showed me a move or strategy that improved me on the mat. Off the mat would probably be my family who has always been supportive and helpful in everything I've done.
What are your future plans for college? what is your study of interest?
I haven't decided on a college yet. I've looked at a few already, I am going to look at a few more pretty soon and then I will decide. I'm still up in the air on what major do go into as well but it'll most likely be Sports Medicine, Pre-Chiropractic or Pre-Physical Therapy.
I know you are also a successful student sporting 4.0 GPA's, do you feel being successful in the classroom translates to success on the mat?
Yes I do because when other kids are worried about passing a test or getting their homework
done in time I can focus on my wrestling. I've always been a fast learner and I have a great memory so I don't ever need to study and I get my homework done quickly so I have time to make sure my weight is where I need it to be or get an extra drill session in down in the basement
Is there a possible collegiate wrestling career or other other sports?
Hopefully, I really want to go to a university where I can continue my wrestling career. I would like to attend a Division 2 or 3 school where I can continue to improve my wrestling skills and work towards becoming an All-American.
Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable?
2004 Area V champion, it was my last year in JO's and I wanted to end on a high note. I didn't place at states so I didn't end as high as I had wished but I had pretty good showing down there and am happy with the result.
What does your diet consist of during the season?
Very nutritious food because it helps keep your weight down and your body running as best it can. Lots of water! If you want your body to perform at a high level, give it good healthy food and not junk food.
Do you do any extra personal training on your own and if so what does It consist of?
This past season after we came back from Thanksgiving break I started running in the mornings at school from 10-20 minutes a day and continued that throughout the season. I also try to get in an extra drill session whenever I can in my basement using my dad as the practice dummy.
What are some other activities and extracurricular acitivies do you participate and why you enjoy them?
I am on the Cross Country team, we made it to states last year and hopefully will this year too. I did track in 9th and 10th grades and probably will in 12th grade as well. I've been on Student Council for 4 years. I'm in Spanish club, NHS, and Show Choir as well. I do all of these activities because they keep me from becoming bored and are fun as well.
Are there any rules you would like to see changed and if so what?
Injury time after you've lying on your back for several seconds trying to fight out is a bull crap. You can be injured on your way to your back, either hitting too hard or a muscle pulls on the way over. That's fine because that actually happens. But I have seen many kids get put to their back and seem fine but once they realize after 4, 5, maybe 10 seconds that they can't get out just twirl their finger and act hurt so they can get a fresh start and avoid giving up a fall. This can take away the magical underdog pins that make this sport great because all the guy
has to do is twirl his finger and he gives up 4 back points instead of a pin. You should use your body and attitude to get off your back not your index finger.
Who in your opinion is the greatest wrestler from each level...District
9, PA state high school, college and international levels?
D9: Scott
or Andy Rendos, PA HS: Zach Kemmerer, Matt Dunn, Coleman Scott College: Cael or Dustin Schlatter from Minnesota, International: John Smith, Gable, or Rulon Gardner.
What are your wrestling goals this year and future years?
This year, 34+ wins (will set school record), district champ, regional champ (will be first in school history), State Champ (will be a first in school history). Future: All-American in college.
Is there anyone at this time you would like to give thanks to? My Parents, the rest of my family and friends, my coaches, my teammates, everyone else who has helped me improve as a wrestler and as a person.
**Paragraph from parents about Dan.
From Mom and Dad... Dan has always given his best effort not only at wrestling, but in any endeavor he has faced. I would love to state that I said all the right words and am responsible for molding him into the great kid (young man) that he has become, but in reality, we have been blessed as he has always shown an incredible maturity from a very early age. He is a great self-motivator and we are very proud of him not only in sports and academics, but as a nice, mature young man… Thanks a million Dan, for letting us have the chance to enjoy your career and the amazing world of wrestling.
Thanks again for the oppurtunity to do this interview and keep up the good work with Crossface.
Sincerely,
Dan Blair
BRAD RAPP ~ CLARION interviewed by Coach Lee Weber
1.How and when did you get started in wrestling and were you successful at that time? Started wrestling in 2nd grade. My school offered a "Wrestling for Fun" for grades K-6 and my parents suggested I try it. I struggled a little bit at the beginning.
2.Once you obtained a high level of success, how difficult was it for you to maintain it? It wasn't that hard to maintain. I kept the same work ethic and it just came to me.
3. You have had a successful career, but you have not obtained your goal of placing at states. How important is that for you to make it to the big show? It is very important because in 8th grade, I placed 6th at states and I would like to better that.
4.What are your thoughts leading up to a match, during and after? I block everything out and try to focus mainly on my game plan and attack. After each match I focus on my next opponent.
5. What do you attribute your success in wrestling? My success depends on my competitive spirit and mental drive to be the best.
6.You have great family support. How important is that to you? It is important because it gives me the extra motivation to perform well.
7.You started as a freshman wrestling at a weight class (160) where juniors and seniors dominated. Has that helped you or not? I think that it helped me learn to use quickness instead of strength, and how to defend myself against the stronger more aggressive opponents.
8. What two matches stand out the most in your mind...one loss and one win matches? Win- Beating Dan Van Dyke my sophomore year at the Fred Bell Memorial 4-3. Loss- Losing to John Phillips my junior year in the Regional Semi-final 8-7 after beating him the previous week in the district final.
9. How do you like to be remembered after you graduate from high school? I would like to be remembered by my work ethic and ability to motivate and inspire others through my actions.
10. How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person? It has made me a very strong and confident person, but also calm and controlled.
11. Do you think you may consider coaching in the future? I would consider coaching at the junior high or high school level.
12. What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass onto the next generation of wrestlers? Each day is important. You must practice and wrestle like its your last day and to just keep getting better.
13. Who has been some of the biggest influences on and off the mat? My parents, because they influenced me to start and have helped me along the way.
14. What are your future plans? If college, where and study of interest? I plan on attending college and major in a field of engineering.
15. I know, you are also a successful football player, is there a possible collegiate wrestling career or other sports? Yes, I am interested in playing collegiate sports, football or wrestling.
16. Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable? Winning the district title my junior year.
17. What does your diet consist of during the season? I eat a balanced diet of lean meat, small amount o potato, and lots of vegetables.
18. Do you do any extra personal training on you own and if so what does it consist of? On weekends, I will go running usually about 2 miles to help my conditioning.
19. What are some other activities and extra curricular activities do you participate and why you enjoy them? I play football and track also. I also enjoy being outside. Hunting, fishing, camping and racing are things I like to do out doors.
20. Are there any rules you would like to see changed and if so what? In general, I think most of the rule changes take away from the toughness and intensity of the sport.
20. Who in your opinion is the greatest wrestler from D9, PA State High School, College and International Levels? At the High school level, Kyle Cathcart was the wrestler I looked up to while I was in elementary school. I did not know anyone else at the higher levels.
21. What are your wrestling goals this year and future years? My ultimate goal this season is to place in the top six at the state tournament.
22. Coaches comments: Both Coach Sintobin and I had the honor of coaching Brad Rapp at the high school level. We never had an athlete who was so obedient in following through with what he is suppose to do. His work ethic is second to none. There was nothing he would not do for his coach and teammates, as long as it fits into his ethics. He knows what is right and wrong and he makes the right decisions. Brad is a bright kid in and out of the classroom and he would be a great asset to any sport program at the next level. When coaches asked me about Brad Rapp, I told them, "When my sons grow up, I hope they turn out to be just like Brad Rapp." There is no greater compliment I can give him. Brad, thanks for your dedication to our program. Coach Weber
TRENT FILER-OSWAYO VALLEY
How and when were you introduced to wrestling?
3 years old, 32lbs., my dad was a wrestler
How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person?
It has made me dedicated and strive to always do better.
Do you think you may consider coaching in the future? I want to keep in touch with the sport some how throughout my life.
What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass onto the next generation of wrestlers?
That anyone can improve from where they are. They can take huge steps at a time, every year trying to beat someone they couldnt.
Who have been some of your biggest influences on and off the mat? on the mat, its been any wrestler thats better than me. because i want to be where they are. and off the mat, my family has influenced me alot.
What are your future plans for college? if so; study of interest?
The college I am attending is yet undecided, but I would like to study business management.
Possible collegiate wrestling career or other sports? Yes, most likely, I think college wrestling would be a blast.
Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable? When I won my first match of regionals and beat a boy from Reynolds.
What does your diet consist of during the season? more of what it dont consist of. less bread and spaghetti.
Do you do any extra personal training on your own and if so what does it consist of?
running, jogging, biking, swimming, and lifting
What are some other activities and extracurricular acitivies do you participate and why do you enjoy them? x-country, it feels great to be apart of a team, and it feels good to be in that running shape.
Are there any rules you would like to see changed and if so what? no
What are your wrestling goals this year and future years?
to be the best I can be, to try to beat every person I come across no matter who they are, and know that I can beat them before I even step out on the mat. In the future, my goal is to never quit climbing. I've came a long way from where I was in 7th grade. and I dont plan to quit I guess; until I am a champion.
SAM WILLIAMS to receive Lifetime Service award for Officials from National Wrestling Hall of Fame
by Ron Frazier (Crossface Wrestling Editor)
STILLWATER, OKLA. - Sam Williams of Fall Creek, Pa., a top official in international, high school and college wrestling for almost 40 years, has received the Lifetime Achievement for Officials award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.
This award recognizes outstanding service as a wrestling or pairing official or judge. Inductees are honored in the Vince Zuaro Officials Room at the Museum.
Williams, who retired from officiating in 1984, was one of the founders of the U.S. Wrestling Officials Association (USWOA), the national organization for international wrestling officials. He was considered one of the top referees in the East, and worked matches at many levels, both in the international style and the U.S. collegiate styles. He started officiating on the high school level in Pennsylvania in 1948, and worked in that state until he moved to New York in 1953.
As a New York official, Williams worked matches on both the college and high school levels. He was the first official to institute red and green armbands that were later used by all high school referees. As a collegiate referee, Williams worked numerous major competitions, including the NCAA Div. II and NCAA Div. III National Championships.
Williams started officiating international-style wrestling in 1968, first working with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), then later working on the local level with the new U.S. Wrestling Federation (USWF). His involvement with the USWF, which later became USA Wrestling, included working at the first Junior National Championships in 1971 in Iowa City, Iowa, an event he officiated every year until his retirement.
Williams worked numerous international events during his career, including international dual meets, international exchanges and U.S. Olympic qualifying events. He served as head of officials for three states (Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut). He received the emeritus status for officials from USA Wrestling for his service to the sport.
On June 3, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Sam Williams will be inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. After interviewing Sam for an extended period of time and being an avid wrestling fan, I ended the interview feeling we could have spoke all night and I would have been educated and fascinated by another wrestling story. It is a high honor to be recognized in any sport on the national level, but Sam not is being recognized for his contribution to wrestling but he has played a huge impact on the history of the sport of wresting. Sam implicated a major contribution that is used in every match in the world.
Sam introduced the the Green (home) and Red (visitor) scoring system, which greatly reduced confusion and controversy which before this implication was very common. On the International Level, the Red (pure blood) and Blue (bad blood) system is used.. Sam submitted his idea to the National Rules Committee Head, Fritz McGinnis. After hearing Sam's recommendation, McGinnis granted him permission to try this new idea in his own state of N.Y. for one year. After great feedback, the National Rules Committee adopted the green and red scoring system nationally.
Sam's entire life has evolved around amateur wrestling, from the time he was in 5th grade wrestling Saturdays with DuBois first Head Coach, Herb Jack till now at a very young 78 years old.
His involvement even extended to his wedding day to his wife Carolyn when in 1979 they were married on the mat at the University of Iowa with an attendance of over 5,000 people in the stands and 120 referees around the mat with the ceremony being performed on medal podium.
Sam was also very instrumental in starting Jeff Blatnik ,a well known and respected color man for all the amateur wrestling events from NCAA championships, Olympics, World Cups and even the Ultimate fighting Championships. Sam was asked to do color commentary for the Empire Games but was unable because of acting Head Official, but he said he would find someone and the rest is history.
I could hear excitement in Sam's voice when he spoke of being on the first DuBois High School team to defeat the dominent Clearfield team of 1945. Up to that point Clearfield went 8 years undefeated and then went another unbelievable 8 years before losing another match (16 years with only 2 defeats) .
When Sam just got out of the service, he entered a tournament in DuBois who was hosting a AAU tournament. Not being in the best wrestling shape, he met and not familiar with his opponent, lost 6-3, disappointed until he found out he lost to Hugh Perry, National Champion.
Sam along with Hall of Fame coach Gary Freis, started the Western N.Y. Wrestling Club in suberbs of Buffalo N.Y. Sam has helped many programs as a clinician and speaker. I would just like to thank you Sam for your many years of service and dedication to our sport.
Andy Rendos Brockway 2X State Champion and District 9 All Time Wins leader
1st State Title
2X State Champion
ANDY RENDOS
Crossface Wrestling
"Focus on the Wrestler"
Interview by Danielle Anderson
1. When were you first introduced to wrestling?
I was first introduced at about the age of five when my parents would take me to see my older brother, Aaron, wrestling in his dual meets and the tournaments that he was in.
2. When did you start wrestling?
I started at the age of about 6. I was in first grade when I started and I only wrestled about two or three days a week.
3. Do you think it's better for kids to start out young or do you think they burn out on it to easily?
I think that kids should wait till a later age to start wrestling. When a young kid starts really early they get burnt out and by the time that they hit the varsity level they do not want to wrestle anymore and end up quitting. Kids should start wrestling at about the age of ten. That way by the time the kids hit varsity they are not burnt out and they will want to do more wrestling
4. What made you fall in love with the sport?
I fell in love with wrestling because there isn't any other feeling like winning. Also, I fell in love with the sport because of the hard work it takes and I love to work at something that I love to do.
5. How has wrestling impacted You?
Wrestling has impacted me by making myself a better person. Being dedicated and also being motivated will make me a better person when I am done with wrestling. These tools tha t I will use in my lifetime will help me out a lot.
6. What do you think is the toughest part of wrestling?
The toughest part of wrestling I think is that in order to be a good wrestler it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Good wrestlers have to put a lot of time and effort into the sport. It takes blood, sweat, and tears in order to become one of the best
7. This wasn't a great year on numbers for Brockway Wrestling. How did you deal with that and prepare yourself in and outside of the room?
I had to keep my mind focused and work just as hard as I did last year . I needed to get extra workouts in and also push myself very hard in order to stay on top. During the season I wrestled pretty much every day whether it was lifting and running after practice or going to State College on the weekends to get an extra workout in.
8. In the District Finals, your brother, Aaron, was in the opposite corner of you and coaching your opponent. How was that?
It was a little difficult to you have your own brother in the other corner. When I came to wrestle I didn't even care if he was in the other corner because when I get focused I do not think about anything else around me except for the match ahead of me. In the future we will have something to talk about when my brother coached against me.
9. Do you have any big rivals?
I really don't think I have any rivals. I have wrestled so many kids that it is really hard to pick ju st one person that I think is a rival.
10. So why did you choose to attend Bucknell instead of a bigger wrestling school?
I thought that Bucknell was a better fit for me because I will get a great education while I will be attending there. Another reason is that I will be able to start up a whole new program and be able to help a college out. Bucknell was a great college when I visited there and I felt like I was at home.
11. What do you plan on studying at Bucknell?
I plan to go into engineering. The reason why engineering is because I like math a lot and by getting into engineering I will be able to use a lot of math.
12. Would You ever consider coaching in the future?
I definitely would love to coach one day. I would like to one day pass all the things that I have learned to another group so that they can excel in wrestling. It would also give me a chance to give back to the wrestling community
13. Are you involved in any other activities?
I am involved in two AP classes in school which include calculus and chemistry. These are two things that I love to do and they fun to be in.
14. Is there a match that you would call your favorite?
If there was one match that I could pick from it would probably be my last years state finals match against Aaron Ne stor. The reason why this is my favorite is because it was such a great season and to be able to cap it off with my first state title makes it that much better.
15. What is your most memorable experience in wrestling?
Being able to break my brothers win record. I wanted to beat my brothers win record ever since he set it about two years ago. At the beginning of the season I knew it was going to be hard and I would have to pretty much win every single match in order to break it.
16. What is your most memorable achievement in wrestling?
Winning another state title is my most memorable achievement because I had worked so hard for something that I have wanted all of my life. It was so great because very few people are able to win two state titles and it just puts me in an elite club.
17. How did it feel to surpass your brother, Scott's, all time wins record this season?
It felt really great because I set a goal for myself two years ago to break the win record. Being able to break it and also being able to complete my goal make it so great.
18. How does it feel to be asked to wrestle on the Pennsylvania Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic Team?
It is such an honor to be able to wrestle for the Pennsylvania team at the Dapper Dan. Only the elite are able to compete at it and being named one of them is such an honor to me.
19. Do you think there are any rules that should be applied, changed, or tweaked?
I think that high school wrestling should add riding time to the rules. By adding riding time, it is forcing the bottom man to get out as soon as he can instead of stalling on the bottom. It also gives the top man something to work for because if a person is able to ride some one out they should be rewarded with a point.
20. Who are your biggest influences on and off the mat?
My friends and family are my biggest influences because they are always there trying to help me out one way or another. My friends are always cheering me on to do better and my family is there for me when I need support.
21. What would you say is the best thing you've taken from the sport?
The dedication and the work ethic is what I will be taking from the sport. With these two things I will be able to accomplish pretty much anything that I set my mind to because I will work hard to achieve my goals.
BRAD STEINBACH
1.When did you start wrestling?
When I was 6, my neighbor Josh Sporner came home with a trophy and said he got it wrestling. I ran into the house and told my dad I wanted to wrestle and I have been wrestling ever since. BRAD taking 2nd Place in both States Freestyle and Greco at 10 years old.
2.Share a junior wrestling moment that is most memorable?
There were many great moments, but I will always remember winning the Area V Tournament for the fifth straight year and not letting an opponent score a point against me.
3. When was the most memorable experience that you have had since you began wrestling?
Placing at States last year and feeling all the pressure and excitement that is in that building and knowing that just one wrong move was the difference between winning and losing is something I will never forget.
4. How did it effect the rest of your wrestling career?
I know now to be the best you need to work harder than everyone else and to be mentally ready to wrestle every match.
5. Who has been the most significant influences to your wrestling success? My dad has always pushed me to be the best I can be. He would take me all over the state to wrestle the toughest kids and find tried to find me good wrestling partners. I have also been very fortunate to have some great coaches over the years. I hate to name anyone specific because they all have been there for me. Just to name a few are Billy Meyer, Tim Wurm, Don Schoonover, Rick Leitzel, Ken Chertow, and Coach Fordoski. They have all helped me not to just be a wrestler, but to do the right things, get good grades, and be someone kids can look up to.
6. How has wrestling impacted your life and how do you see it helping you after wrestling?
Wrestling is a sport like no other. When you are on the mat you have one thing in mind and that is to win. Off the mat it doesn't matter who you are or what school you are from, everyone is friendly and treats you like family.
7. Would you like to coach someday and if so what would you pass on that has been the most beneficial?
I would like to come back and coach some day and give something back to the wrestling community that they have given to me. A very good friend and old teammate of mine, Josh Meyer is doing that right now, helping coach our JO and junior high programs and he acts like they are all his own kids.
8. Right now your on a hot pinning streak pinning more than 75% of your opponents, who has been the toughest opponent that you have pinned?
Dustin Mullens has always been a tough match for me. Our first match this year he got himself a little out of position and I reacted and got the pin.
9. What are you immediate goals and after school goals "Both On and Off the Mat"?
Obviously winning states is my top goal on the mat and getting a good education and going on to college is tops off the mat.
10. Who in District 9 has given you the most memorable match you'll never forget?
Kyle Keane has been a wrestler I have never been able to beat, "YET". I lost to him twice my freshman year; the second time was in the District 9 finals.
11. In your opinion, who has been the best District 9 wrestler, college wrestler, and international wrestler?
There have been so many good wrestlers come out of District 9 it is hard to say who was the best, but wrestlers I have watched and wrestled against; Brad Pataky has to be ranked right up there. As for college wrestler I can remember when I was small, my dad would take me to Lock Haven, to father / son wrestling camps and Kerry Kolat was one of our instructors. We got to know him personally and would watch him wrestle in collage as often as possible. Of course Ken Chertow is on that list now. I never saw him wrestle live in any matches but have watched many of his tapes from high school thru the Olympics.
12. What does your diet and training exist of during the season?
I stay away from pop, fast foods and candy during the season. I normally come home from practice, eat supper, do my studying, watch a little TV, and then run on the treadmill until I make weight. Weight training and running is a big part of wrestling during the season.
13. What advice would you like to pass onto young wrestlers looking to reach their wrestling goals?
Young wrestlers should be aggressive, work hard on the mat, and learn a couple of moves really well. Practice them every day until they just happen during a match without thinking about them.
14. What has been your greatest achievement on and off the mat?
Being the first sophomore in our school history to place at states has been my greatest achievement on the mat and playing baseball last year at PNC Park in the Legion Western Finals was exciting.
15. What are you views on weight loss?
Dieting is a big part of wrestling. I don't think cutting too much weight is any good but in wrestling season you need to eat the right kinds of foods to keep your weight down and your strength up. Sometimes you are put in a situation where the team needs you to be a certain weight, either to fill a position or to win a match. Starving yourself to lose weight and thinking it will make you a better wrestler doesn't work.
16. What rules would you like see changed, modified or added?
I think that stalling should be called sooner. Too many times a wrestler will stall on the bottom and just try to hang on or will ride on the top and not try to score.
17. What other interests and activities do you have away from the mat?
Baseball is a big part of my life also. I have been on a traveling tournament team since I was 10 years old. I also like to hunt and fish.
18. You have been donned "The Intimidater" by Crossface, how would you describe yourself?
I try to set the tempo of the match. If you are aggressive and your opponent knows you are coming after them right from the whistle they tend to make mistakes that you can capitalize on.
19. Being a junior and so successful, do you feel there will be more pressure as a senior?
I think that by training hard and doing what is right, good things will continue to happen.
Any closing statements you would like to share, thank you, or anything you would like wrestling enthusiasts to know.
I would like to thank my parents for being there for me, my sisters, who drive for hours just to watch a match, and all my coaches for their support. Wrestling isn't for everyone but once you're hooked you are hooked for life!
Questions for Mom and Dad: How would you describe Brad's dedication to the sport?
What has been some of the most memorable moments as parents with Brad and his wrestling?
Mr. and Mrs Frank Steinbach: Express the wrestling trip through the years, in a paragraph or two.
Closing thoughts from Mom and Dad,
Brad has always put extra effort into sports. Like going to camps in the off-season or doubling up on practices during the season. When he was small we had half our basement made into a wrestling room and he would ask the neighbor boys down (or his sister Loren) to practice new moves on them, then would go out and use those moves in matches.
Winning the Area V tournament when he was 13 was one we will never forget. There were 4 previous Area V champions in that weight class that year. Another was pinning his opponent at regionals last year in the consolation finals. Brad had lost to him twice previous in very close matches, once in the Semi-finals at JO States.
They didn't have wrestling as a sport at our school until I was a senior, so I really didn't know much about it. Some friends of mine who had kids wrestling in JO's talked me into letting Brad wrestle. He was 7 at the time and went to his first tournament that weekend and placed third. We have been hooked ever since. I think more than anything else is the friendships we have made and the places we have gone, that wouldn't have been possible if it wasn't for wrestling. I often tell Connie if I would have known wrestling was this much fun we would have had another boy. SHE NEVER ANSWERS ME BACK!!!!!
Dan Frey-
1. When did you start wrestling? I started when I was in kindergarden. I was five years old.
2.Share a junior wrestling moment that is most memorable? I had allot of memorable moments during my JO years, but the best was when I won at regionals to get to the State Tournament
3. When was the most memorable experience that you have had since you began wrestling? I have had many memorable experiences but what really stands out in my mind is the battle that I won to get me to JO states.
4. How did it effect the rest of your wrestling career? It has proved to me that goals can be accomplished and has made me work even harder.
5. Who has been the most significant influences to your wrestling success? I have always had great support in wrestling from family, friends, and coaches.I can't name one single influence, but there are allot of people that I need to thank for pushing me to my maximum potential and giving me confidence.
6. How has wrestling impacted your life and how do you see it helping you after wrestling? Although wrestling is a team sport, it has helped me become more independent, and accept personal responsibility. I see it helping me for the rest of my life because it helped me understand sacrifice and what it takes to succeed.
7. Would you like to coach someday and if so what would you pass on that has been the most beneficial? I would like to coach someday. Along with moves, techniques, and workouts, I would make sure my wrestlers understand that it takes hard work outside of the wrestling room to achieve their maximum goals.I would teach them to always show respect, and have pride in their team. They would know that, win or lose, they are not only representing themselves, but their team, their school, and their fans.
8. The Pride of being a BAGUBA~tell us what a Baguba is, and in your words what stands behind the pride of being a Baguba. BAGUBA Brutally Aggressive Guy Uninhibited by Adversity.Although our team name is really the Red Raiders, Baguba wrestlers have a far more challenging standard to live up to. Only wrestlers understand what it takes to be a Baguba.
9. What are you immediate goals and after school goals "Both On and Off the Mat"? Whether I meet them or not, I always set my goals high. I would love to finish the season undefeated and place in the State Tournament. I plan to attend college but I am undecided about continuing my wrestling career.
10. Who in District 9 has given you the most memorable match you'll never forget? There are many matches that I would like to forget, but a few that I will always remember. One is the match that qualified me for regionals in my sophomore year, against Dane Condino.We have had many hard fought battles over the years, and he has proven himself to be a worthy competitor.
11. In your opinion, who has been the best District 9 wrestler, college wrestler, and international wrestler? Through all my years of wrestling, I have always looked up to Doug McGraw. Maybe because I know him personally, and know that he is a great person off the mat, and has proven himself to be a great wrestler. He may not have statistically been the best, but in my opinion, he was the greatest. Doug was 3x district champ, 4x regional champ, 4x state qualifier, 4th place in junior year and 1st as a senior, and National Champ. He now wrestles for Pennsylvania University, and is very successful in his studies as well as in his wrestling career. On his holidays and breaks from school , he takes the time to drill with me when he is home. I am very fortunate for that. Thanks Doug!
12. What does your diet and training exist of during the season? During the season I lift weights three days a week, running and exercise everyday. As far as my diet is concerned, I tend to cut back on fatty foods and pop, and cut out the snacks. For the most part my eating habits are normal.
13. What advice would you like to pass onto young wrestlers looking to reach their wrestling goals? To most people it is hard to distinguish overtraining and pushing too hard from wanting a young wrestler to simply be the best that he can be. I, like many others, questioned whether I wanted to continue wrestling after not achieving my JO and JH goals. I would have to remind young wrestlers that all their hard work through JO and JH is training for your varsity years, and to find a way to enjoy it, and have fun in every moment of wrestling.
14. What has been your greatest achievement? I have yet to achieve my highest goal of making it to the state tournament, but until now its been making it to states in JO and winning a few matches there.
15. What are you views on weight loss? Although I have been among the many that have sucked weight to get to a class that I thought I belonged in, or I would have more success in, the end result proved that it I was weaker for it. I never had allot of extra weight to lose, and when I did suck weight it just made wrestling miserable for me.
16. What rules would you like see changed, modified or added? I would like to see more stalling calls for guys riding on top if they are not working. Riding legs, for instance, is one useful technique, but some guys tie up and ride parallel for over half a period. I'd like to see the refs encourage more action on the mat.
17. What other interests and activities do you have away from the mat? I played football this past year. I also enjoy lifting, running, and general exercise. I also spend time with my family, friends, and girlfriend.
Questions for Mom and Dad: How would you describe his dedication to the sport?
Relentless. Dan has always been focused on trying to achieve the highest goals in wrestling. When he fails to reach the goals that he sets for himself, he works even harder.
Is Dan a family man if so how?
Dan is very much a family man. He always tries to be a model for his younger siblings, while trying to one-up his older brother Cain. Dan also recognises his extended "wrestling family", including loyal supporters from Cameron County and elsewhere, that have always been there for him.
Mom and Dad (Randy and Kim Frey) to express the wrestling trip through the years, in a paragraph or two.
From Mom and Dad
Where have the years gone? We look back on the countless hours of bleacher butt, the thousands of miles traveling, the sleepless nights in noisy motel rooms, and we smile. The wrestling life. Thousands of matches watched with results long forgotten, but not the many friendships made along the way. We are thankful for the memories that our son's wrestling career have brought us. We are so proud of Dan for his accomplishments on the mat, but more so for his sportsmanship, and for always representing his team, school, and parents in a positive way. A special thank you to Denny Hornung, Scott Baker, Scott Mullens, Terry Stemmler, Jim Zoschg, Larry McGraw, and many others for instilling the traits, in our son, that it takes to be a BAGUBA
RICK, BROCK AND NIKKO LEITZEL~FAMILY WRESTLING IS A WAY OF LIFE
This interview really along with the first two interviews with Sipes and Keane began the readers asking for more ,, many more interviews with their favorite and most respected wrestlers and coaches.
RICK LEITZEL
What is your earliest wrestling memory?* *How did it effect you in the rest of your wrestling career/life?*
My earliest wrestling memory was back when I was 6 or 7 years old after my first year of wrestling in JO's under Tony Catalano. My parents sent me to a Penn State wrestling camp, as luck would have it, the registration form got lost and their rooming situation was a mess. An older fellow, who I did not know at the time, said I could stay with him and his sons at his farm for the week since he and the boys would be coming to camp each day. Well as it turned out that 'Old Man' was the late and great head P. S .U. wrestling coach, Bill Koll. One of his sons was Chris Koll, who later ended up being my high school coach.
*When did you feel the greatest achievement as a wrestler/parent/family?*
As far as my greatest achievement as a coach, that's a tough one, because as much as I like to win, I don't consider it an achievement. Yes it's the result of many achievements, but not what I consider and achievement in itself. I am proud of any kid who puts in the hard work and gives it their all, many times that's even when there is a loss on the scoreboard. I like to see kids and parents enjoy the sport regardless of the outcome. I always tell my kids and parents, yes, give it your all, but win or lose, enjoy the journey.
*Growing up (and today) who has had the most influence in your life as a "wrestling being"?*
As far as influences there are a few, each in their own way that has affected me. Early on it was my high school coach Chris Koll and his father Bill Koll. Coach Koll came to Ridgway with a lot of knowledge at a level that most in the area had not yet seen. Another influence in my high school years, and he will probably be surprised by this, was John Bernardo, the long time head coach of Brockway. I enjoyed watching his coaching technique, his intensity and the way he carried himself; always a role model for young men. As of recently (the last 15-20 years) I have learned a lot from Coach Pat Pecora of UPJ. One of my high school wrestlers wrestled for Coach Pecora, so I got to spend 4 years learning as much as I could from Pat. He is truly a great man and a great ambassador for the sport. And lastly and without a doubt the biggest influence has been my son! Any coach who has the opportunity to coach their own children knows that it is the most challenging coaching duties they have ever had. I've changed a lot of my coaching ways, not with the technique of the sport, but the 90% mental part. It took me quite a while to learn it and I can't quite put a finger on exactly what I mean, but any coach that has coached his own son knows just what I mean. It has made me a better coach and a better person, sometime too close to being at the expense of the relationship I share with him.
*If you could give advice to the younger (up and coming) wrestlers, what would it be?*
When it comes to advice for the younger wrestlers it would have to be for the most part you get out of wrestling what you put in it. That, by no means, means that every kid should have the same goal. Being involved in something and giving it your all is just as rewarding as being the one who is always winning. Remember, 'Enjoy the Journey!'
*How has "coaching" helped you through out wrestling?*
I do not coach for monetary reasons, I have never taken a dime, nor will I, for coaching. It's something I enjoy for myself and most importantly for the kids. A sincere 'Thank You' from a parent or wrestler is all the pay I need. I really enjoy helping the kids no matter what town they are from. I tell the kids that come into our room from other towns during the summer season, that as much as I want Ridgway to win at a meet, that I hope they win their individual bouts because they are putting in their efforts to get better. I like to see those kids win, no matter what town they are from, that the part that is important to me. I am just as proud and get the same amount of joy form them as if they were wearing maroon and white.
This is to answer the question that was posted by someone on the Internet site.
What motivates me to be a volunteer?
I really enjoy the kids, I like to take a 'no-name-kid' that no one expects much from or gives much time to, and help them out. If you are ever having a bad day at work, just show up at a J.O. wrestling practice and see all those little kids running around, and wrestling, it changes your whole day. But, I also like to take those exceptional kids who have high goals for themselves and try to help them get to the top. That REALLY drives me to another level. It almost consumes me! So honestly, I really enjoy both ends of the sport and try to stay involved at all levels as much as I can. Even though I am focused on the Varsity Team right now,,, I try to keep up with the new blood too.
As far as the future of wrestling goes, I am shocked at the PIAA approach of thinking reducing weight classes would enhance the sport. "It makes no sense to me!" The real issues are in coaching philosophies. I won't go into it too deep, but I typed a letter to the PIAA and also posted it on the DIX site on my views of this. In summary, I believe too many coaches are worried about the 'Team Wins' and not doing what's in the best interest of each kid. Why is it in a scrimmage we wrestle the newer kids against each other and the more experienced wrestlers together, but when it comes to the season, many coaches do just the opposite. Wrestling is not a fan friendly sport because of this, and then everyone wonders why the kids don't stay out and fans don't show up to support the kids.
If I was the wrestling GOD,, in charge of the rules (unfortunately I'm not!), my answer would be to only allow teams to weigh in 14 kids. That way all the other teammates would be wrestling at the Junior Varsity level rather than being ponds in the never-ending wrestler 'match up' game that goes on. Let's worry about preparing better wrestlers and the team score will take care of itself, not worry about the team score first. Again, I am not the ultimate decision make on this. I understand the pressures of winning put on the coaches, but if the PIAA would limit the number of kids to 14 that can weigh in for a match (and not reduce the number of weight classes) we would see an immediate impact on the number of JV's and kids willing to develop in 9th or 10th grade. This way, rather than being thrown into the varsity line up (just in case the coach needs to throw them in) or being sent out to be the 'sacrifice' in order to save the stud for definite win, they would be getting great experience wrestling other kids of the same caliber at the JV level. I hate to see good match-ups, meet after meet never take place, that's what is killing the sport, not the kids or the level of participation. I could go on and on and on,,,, but you can find my letter on the DIX site under 'Wt changes',,, just my thoughts, thanks
Rick Leitzel has given so much to wrestling; not just Ridgway but to the sport as a whole. We thank you for all your contributions!
NIKKO LEITZEL
What is your earliest wrestling memory?* *How did it effect you in the rest of your wrestling career/life?*
My earliest memory as a wrestler was going to Burrell as a 6 year old and taking first place at the 6 and under 45 pound bracket. The trophy that I won was bigger than me, and I could hardly carry it.
*When did you feel the greatest achievement as a wrestler/parent/family?*
I felt a great achievement this past year going undefeated as a freshmen at the varsity level through our regular dual meet season.
*How has wrestling made an impact of your life?*
Wrestling has taught me to be my own person and how to strive towards achieving goals.
*Growing up (and today) who has had the most influence in your life as a "wrestling being"?*
My family, friends and coaches have all had a great impact on me and my wrestling. I would not be as successful without all of them behind me 100 percent.
*What is your favorite memory of wrestling?*
Being on the Pennsylvania School Boy team that travels to Indiana for Free Style and Greco and winning the National Title there two years in a row. The kids that were on the team were great and I am glad I got to know so many of them. Also being on the "What's New Pussy Cat?" team with Nick and Nate Sipes, and traveling to Nebraska for the Brute Nationals competition.
*If you could give advice to the younger (up and coming) wrestlers, what would it be?*
I would tell kids that they need to be able to work through any hurdles they encounter, and to take advantage of summer camps and off-season opportunities.
*How has "coaching" helped you through out wrestling?*
I have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with some of the best coaches and it makes all the difference when you are out there on the mat. From my hometown coach (and Uncle) Rick Leitzel to Ken Chertow and John Hughes, the best coaches bring out the best in me. They don't just teach wrestling skills, they teach life skills
Thank you to Ange McMillen (Supermatmaid) for great interviews with the Leizels.
This being the first of many "FOCUS on the Wrestler" interviews we are doing to promote our own area wrestlers; we had to choose the right family for our first edition. After completing this page; we knew we made the right choice as you will see. The Sipes of Curwensville are respected in many wrestling circles. The boys are good role models in all aspects, not just wrestling; and why not; they have two of the most encouraging parents. Lee and Tammy, I commend you on your sons outlook of life, attitude and perspectives. I have watched Nick and Nate since they were small and have enjoyed watching them gaining success. We at CROSSFACE WRESTLING would like to see many more years of this success. Thank you for this interview and encouraging words and inspiration for many of our wrestlers out there (young and old!)
Ron Frazier webmaster
(CROSSFACE WRESTLING)
The Sipes Family a Family tradition What is some of your most memorable experiences that you have through wrestling?
Nate: My most memorable experiences are wrestling at Freestyle and Greco-roman nationals with my brother and both of us getting All-American placements. (top 8)
Nick: One of my most memorable experiences would be winning PAJW states last year, and also wrestling with the best in PA in Fargo and Colorado for freestyle and Greco-Roman. Another thing would me becoming and All-American, and remembering that the one side of the podium was all PA kids. (Placing 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th.)
When did you start wrestling?
Nate: Uh, I believe that I started in 1st grade but started competing in 2nd.
Nick: I think I started wrestling when I was still in diapers! Wrestling runs in my blood. I think I stated to wrestle when I was in Kindergarten. It was either the same year, or a year later than Nate did.
What are some of your greatest accomplishments and achievements? Elaborate please don't be modest!
Nate: That would have to be just winning my first match, winning districts and being an All-American in Freestyle and Greco last year as a sophomore, and sticking with a sport that most people can not put up with for one year.
Nick: A great accomplishment for me would have to be when I became an All-American in Freestyle and Greco. Another is I am the highest ranked freshman in the country (out of freshman and sophomores) and I am ranked second, plus right now as I have 5 matches left before going into districts with a 20-4 record and our school 's record is only 21 wins as a freshman.
Who do you contribute most of your success to?
Nate: I would contribute the most of my success of course to my father. He has been through my wins and loses and taught me no matter what happens, if you give your all what else is there. Also I would like to say the Randy "Butch" Nelson is another great mentor in my learning experiences. He has helped me with my conditioning and mental attitude. And finally I can't forget my freestyle coaches. Freestyle and Greco are both very demanding and if you get your hips in the wrong position it can mean the match.
Nick: My contributions would have to go to the people that have supported me, my family, friends, and coaches. I have had a coach that pushed me to the extreme and to where I told him I hated him. That's the kind of coach that I respect and I would have to hold my success to him and my father for pushing me as well.
Nick and Nate..When you coach someday, and I'm sure you will, what things that you learned from your coaches, will you pass on to your wrestlers?
Nate: Never give up and HAVE FUN. It is impossible to win when you are not having fun. A lot of kids quit because they can't win, and in order to win, ultimately you have to have fun.
Nick: I would have to pass on that it has to be fun. If it isn't fun, then you are not going to be successful. Another thing wou ld be, you can't get down on yourself when you lose. Loses are what make champions. You just need to get up, laugh, and learn from the mistakes that you made.
Lee, same question, what do you try to pass on that you have learned from one of your mentors?
Coach Bubb from Clarion said " you gotta love it", and that's the best phrase I could say. If I could teach one thing to kids, it would be, you only get what you put into it. Hard work and hard practice will get you results on the mat. But most kids don't understand. I've been fortunate that Nate and Nick have honestly loved the sport and have worked hard with some encouragement. They have fun and have made it fun for me. Don't worry about winning and losing, the winning will come. Everyone loses when they first start. The most important aspect is to have fun while coming th rough the elementary.
What are your goals with wrestling, college and life?
Nate: I just want to be a state champion as does any other wrestler. In college if I am still wrestling I want to do the best I can. It is a completely different world from varsity to college. I don't know how the competition is there until I make it there.
Nick: I would like to become a two-time state champion. To most being a one time champion would be great, but I would like to push myself to the very extreme to make it come true. In college, if I wrestle, the competition is going to be very different. It is just like the step up from Jr. High to Varsity. It's a whole new world with a new learning experience to follow.
Wrestling is a real family common denominator with your family. Can you explain and tell us what is like during family get togethers?
Nate: Family get-togethers are more like family wrestle-each-others.
Nick: Our family get-togethers always have a wrestling match. Whether it be with our cousin Kyle, my dad, or even my uncle Randy. And when it's the Cathcart side of the family, it's always a wrestling match.
What are your views on weight loss?
Nate: Weight loss? I despise it, I can't stand losing weight. I have done it once maybe twice and I believe that if someone loses more than 5-10 pounds (depending on body composition) it hurts more than it helps.
Nick: For me, weight loss isn't a big thing. I have done it all my life, and if done properly I think it can be very effective. I have had to cut, and am currently cutting, and I think that if people don't "bounce" back and forth from their natural weight to the desired weight, it is a very good thing to do. You just have to have the will power to do it. It takes a great deal of power to pass up food.
In your opinions, who is the greatest wrestler who ever lived?
Nate: Depending on the level. High school - Nate Carr (the only high school wrestler to ever make the Olympic Team "as far as I know"). Collegiate – A toss up between Dan Gable and Cael Sanderson.
Nick: I would have to agree with Nate on this one.
What is it like to be on varsity with your brother and Dad as asst. coach?
Nate: It is very exciting. This is the first year that I can work with my dad and my brother in the same practice room.
Nick: For me to be on varsity with my brother and dad in the same room is great. It pushes me to my limit. I get to wrestle one of the best wrestlers that our school has seen in a long time, and it only makes me better. I think having them in the room makes me the wrestler t hat I am right now.
Mom, surrounded by wrestling and wrestlers your entire life, what is it like to watch your entire family involved?
I have to say that I've truly enjoyed the sport. I watched my brother wrestle, dated my husband through the high school while he wrestled and even worked in the wrestling office at Clarion University. What my kids have done and some of the experiences that they have allowed me to be involved in has been a great joy.
What are your feelings on TITLE IX? Mom answered this.
A wrestler is a wrestler, sex doesn't matter. Nick has a very good friend who wrestles. She has had difficulty in wrestling because she is not as strong as boys her weight. I admire her and my entire family supports her efforts.
What are some areas or rules that you would like to see changed to improve the sport?
Nate: I would like to see the inner circle be used more the center of the mat. In Freestyle and Greco when the ref says "zone" both wrestlers must be in proximity to the center circle. This would get rid of the so called "rim-riders" that rely on the edge of the mat so they aren't afraid of hitting moves because they could always flee and get out of trouble. This would speed up the matches and make them more enjoyable to watch and wrestle.
Nick: I would like to see the same rule that Nate suggested. I have wrestled many "rim-riders" and they never get hit for stalling. I would like to see that rule so that there wouldn't be the ones that if you get in a good position to score, they step back and they are out of bounds.
What will you remember most about your school and team?
Nate: I have always said that my team is one-of-a-kind. We joke around at times when there is need of some jokes. But on the other side we can be very serious in certain cases too. I have never been around a bunch of more enjoyable and hard working guys as these. We may not be the best in the world, but for the most part I can guarantee that they will give you their all.
Nick: I will probably remember that we never had that many kids in the room working. This year we only have around 8 kids in the room, but I haven't been with 8 kids that have to will to work and the want to win like these kids do. While we are working hard, we can still joke around and make the practices fun.
Any closing thoughts...Mom.. I want to say thank you for all of the coaches from Curwensville and other various schools that have supported my children throughout their wrestling careers. I can't explain my feelings at Freestyle states this year, there was coaches from Ridgeway, Erie Prep, Clearfield, and Punxsy in my kid's corners; all supporting Nate's and Nick's efforts. They have benefited from the commitment of these coaches, not only on the mat but in many aspects of their lives.
DEREK CALDWELL-CURWENSVILLE
How and when were you introduced to wrestling?
When I was at the age of six, I began my career as a wrestler. Originally, my mother had signed me up for karate and used to take me every Saturday. I never really liked it and was actually caught playing on the rolled up wrestling mats at the side of the gym a lot. My dad then told me about wrestling, so I decided to give it a shot. From the first time I stepped foot on a wrestling mat I never wanted to come off.
How has wrestling made an impact on your overall person?
Wrestling builds character, no doubt about it. Very few are man enough to say "yeah, I messed up!" That's what I love about the sport. No one to get in your way or mess things up, it's red vs. green for six minutes and whoever scores more points wins. I believe wrestling has made me the certain individual that I am today. A much more independant person.
Do you think you may consider coaching in the future?
Yes, not only am I considering coaching, I'm minoring in it. I feel that if I can change one child's life, pull one kid off the streets, touch one heart with the sport I love the most, then I've done my job as a coach.
What have you taken from wrestling that you would pass onto the next generation of wrestlers?
One great thing about wrestling is there's always hope. Always that chance, that spark that you will come back. Wrestling is like life, you can be down the lowest of the low, losing 14-0 in the consi's bracket, and somehow pull off something miraculous and move to the next stage. With that hope you can do great things.
Who have been some of your biggest influences on and off the mat?
My on the mat influences would have to be my coaches and teammates of course, but surpisingly the main influence is my dad. Everytime I go into a scuffle out of bounds after someone has scored or I just got done wrestling I always look to my dad in the stands. I either wait for the head nod which means "good job", or the stare which means "you've got some explaining to do". Off the mat would no doubtedly be God. If it wasn't for Him we wouldn't be blessed with this great sport or the health and strength to even participate in it. I say that in a prayer before every match I wrestle.
What are your future plans for college? if so; study of interest?
Attend Lock Haven University and Major in Journalism/Mass Media Communications, minor in Coaching
Possible collegiate wrestling career or other sports?
Yes, would love to wrestle for coach Bonomo.
Among your accomplishments, which one stands out as the most memorable? Honestly, I don't think I have any memorable accomplishments, I believe my greatest accomplishment through wrestling would have to be myself. I've come out of my shell because of wrestling. I've been able to be more open towards people and make friends a lot easier.
What does your diet consist of during the season? Water, green tea, granola bars, eggs for breakfast, salad for lunch, and usually some type of cold cut meat, usually turkey.
Do you do any extra personal training on your own and if so what does it consist of?
Running, I'm all about the endurance factor, I have a 3 1/2 mile course mapped out around my neighborhood that I like to run during the wrestling season.
What are some other activities and extracurricular acitivies do you participate and why you enjoy them?
I love playing football, it was my first athletic passion until wrestling came along (not upset, just saying). I'm actually somewhat of a video game nerd, I could play for hours. One more wierd thing I do quite often is memorize sports stats, just ask Johnny Sutika or Nick Sipes and they'll tell you how many numbers I could rattle off in an hour.
Are there any rules you would like to see changed and if so what?
One rule I've always had a pet peave about is the boundary rule. I think folkstyle should change the rule to how freesyle and greco-roman have it set up. If the move is initiated in bounds then it should be allowed to be finished out of bounds.
What are your wrestling goals this year and future years?
This year, obviously, is to get to the podium at Hershey, "nothin' sweeter than chocolate except success". For the future years, I'd like to be an NCAA qualifier for Lock Haven Univ. someday.
To all the youngsters out there who join wrestling: Never give up on this sport because it will never give up on you. Your our future, make us proud.
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