By Tanya Garcia | Lansing News Wire
Lansing New Wire had a chance to catch up with Victoria Carter, Waverly High’s senior wrestler in the 170 pound division. Here is what she had to say about her wrestling experience in Meet the Lady Warriors Q&A:
Q: What inspired you to start wrestling?
A: Wanting to better myself, and to stay fit after finishing my volleyball season freshman year.
Q: Who has been your biggest influence in wrestling?
A: Amit Elon
Q: What do you love most about wrestling?
A: The community and meeting new people when traveling to tournaments in and out of state.
Q: What does a typical week of training look like for you?
A: Conditioning, lifting, and getting on the mats. Staying light on lifts before meets.
Q: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in wrestling?
A: Slamming my thumb in the door at weigh-in’s the day before states.
Q: Can you describe your first match? How did you feel?
A: My first match was against a guy. I had know idea what I was doing and was very nervous but, I just kept going win or lose.
Q: What has been your proudest moment in wrestling so far?
A: Winning my first match at Fargo over the summer.
Q: How does it feel to be back with the team this season, what are your individual and team expectations?
A: It feels great to be back with the team. I expect us to take another district title this year and make it far into team regionals. Individually, I expect to place top three at states.
Q: How has being a student-athlete helped you grow as a person?
A: Being a student athlete definitely builds character. It can be hard at times to mange both but, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve learned time management and discipline play a big role in being a student athlete.
Q: What does it mean to you to represent your school as a student-athlete?
A: I take pride in being a Warrior. I give a 100% on and off the mat whether I fail or not.
Q: What lessons have you learned through wrestling that apply to your life outside the sport?
A: There have been many ups and downs but, this sport has taught me what it feels like to fail completely and get back up to live another day.
Q: How would you describe the strengths and overall dynamic of your wrestling team?
A: I would say half way through a season when the “flakes” leave the team starts to become really close. Our strengths are going out there and just being aggressive owning the circle even if we’re wrestling someone “better” or may know more.
Q: What’s your coach’s name and share one piece of advice from your coach that has stuck with you?
A: My head Coach is Tyler and one piece of advice he has gave me that stuck with me is to work on the mental side of wrestling as much as I practice.
Q: What’s one thing you admire most about your coach’s leadership style?
A: He’s more of like a “bestie” but, he knows how to get me to dial in when it’s time to lock-in.
Q: What advice would you give to others who want to start wrestling?
A: Just try and indulge yourself into the sport as much as you can. It’s not for everyone but, if you don’t stick around long enough you’ll never know.
Q: What’s your signature wrestling move, and does it have a cool name?
A: I love a good inside trip.
Q: Have you ever had a match where something hilarious or unexpected happened? What was it?
A: Yes, I had a very clumsy moment and tripped over my own foot during leagues. I won but, it was too funny and maybe a little embarrassing.
Q: If your team had a karaoke night, who would steal the show, and what song would they sing?
A: I’m honestly not sure but, I know a few would still the spotlight.
Q: If you could wrestle any celebrity, who would it be, and why?
A: I would wrestle the Rock. Honestly just because he’s so big and it would just be too comical.
Q: If wrestling had walkout music like boxing or MMA, what would your theme song be?
A: Black and Yellow by Wiz Khalifa
Q: What is your favorite classroom subject?
A: Science
Q: What is your dream school/university?
A: Honestly, University of Iowa because they have a D1 wrestling team and my major.
Q: What is your favorite place to go eat?
A: Panera Bread or Macalister Deli
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Dubai
Q: What’s a hobby or activity you enjoy outside of sports?
A: I love to going shopping and go to the beach.
LARRY ARREGUIN