Wrestlers’ Training Pays Off With New Personal Achievements
February 27, 2014
Weight classes, long practices, and tough tournaments, this is what defines Albemarle wrestling.
“[Wrestling] is not only the most physically demanding sport, but mentally demanding as well,” coach Philip Plowman said. “There are no excuses. The sport builds a lot of character because you have to deal with losing. You can’t blame anyone else.”
The wrestling team used that mental and physical determination for a 16-9 season.
On Feb. 7 they came in 2nd at the conference championship, beating Halifax and Orange and only losing by 7 points to Patrick Henry.
At the Regional tournament on Feb. 17 senior Lester Hernandez came in 5th and senior Jordan Grimsley qualified for States in 3rd place.
Grimsley went on to come in 6th at the State championship, become the first AHS all-State wrestler in four years.
Just like the rest of Albemarle sports teams, the wrestling team has been sparring new faces this year. Albemarle switched to the Jefferson district after last year, spurring more local rivalries and games closer to home.
“At first it was confusing, but now I feel like it suits us well,” Hernandez said.
“We have a lot of team chemistry. We’ve supported each other the entire year, pushed each other, and worked hard during practices,” Hernandez said.
Plowman agreed, saying, “Good leadership and wrestlers willing to work extremely hard” is what has lead to the success they have had this season.
Hernandez reached his own milestone this year, earning his 100th career win.
“It felt really amazing to know all the hard work I put in has paid off,” Hernandez said. He also reached one of his three personal goals, winning conference champion.
Plowman and Hernandez believe the wrestling program is worth coming out to see.
“Wrestling is continual action, and it’s a great display of strength and athleticism,” Plowman said.
Hernandez agreed, saying «People should come out] To see how great the sport is, how hard we work on the mats, and how much we love it. We all have the best sportsmanship we can.»