Varsity Wrestling: CCS hopes and aspirations
The Aragon varsity wrestling team’s new season is underway, and the squad is looking to carry on momentum from last year’s major accomplishments.
Last year then senior William Eleazar won the title of Aragon’s first individual wrestling champion in over 25 years. Along with this win, the Aragon wrestling team lost a close match and allowed Menlo-Atherton High School to win the PAL Ocean Division.
The Aragon varsity wrestling team has been hard at work beginning the new 2010 season together.
Senior Jake Firestone says, “A big aspect of wrestling is the fact that it is an individual sport. It definitely requires a lot of self motivation. I am looking forward to it and I think that with Coach Ratto we will do well.”
Junior Luis Ocon is prepared for his third year of wrestling. “Winning and making CCS. I like wrestling because it is a one-on-one sport,” says Ocon.
“My number one goal is to make CCS and hopefully go to State. I definitely did not [finish] well last season and so I really need to push myself this year,” says junior Brian Baron.
Sophomore Gabe Cano says, “Even though I’m only trying out for JV, I know it’s getting me ready for varsity.” He also finds much of his wrestling aspirations in his brother, who got him into the sport.
Contrary to popular belief, wrestling does not just involve two opponents on a mat trying to pin one another down. There is much more behind the sport, such as the need for cardiovascular endurance, weight training and core strength. Wrestling also requires much solitary concentration and the ability to think quickly on your feet.
Behind the Aragon wrestlers stands coach Steve Ratto and the dedication he has put forth to his team.
“I want them to grow together as a team and have the number of wrestlers continue to expand. I also want them to enjoy the sport, work hard, and learn. I want wrestlers coming in to want to learn, be willing to try and push [themselves] more than expected,” says Ratto.
