Lansing News Wire caught up with Cecilia Williams, a junior wrestler from Mason High competing in the 125-pound division. Here’s what she had to say about her wrestling journey in this edition of Meet the Lady Bulldogs Q&A:
Q: What inspired you to start wrestling?
A: My older siblings wrestled, so it ran in the family. I saw them wrestling when i was younger and it just sparked something in me.
Q: Who has been your biggest influence in wrestling?
A: My dad has to be my first pick for my biggest influence. He’s the one who got me started wrestling. He has pushed me to be the best i can be since day one.
Q: What do you love most about wrestling?
A: The intensity of it. I love how it pushes me to try my hardest every time.
Q: What does a typical week of training look like for you?
A: I wrestle Monday through Friday. On Tuesdays and Thursdays after wrestling I head to MMA practice with my coach Leroy Ortega. I also usually work out about 3-4 times a week.
Q: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in wrestling?
A: Myself. My mind is my biggest opponent for me. Once I get over all the fear and set back in my head I know I’ve won.
Q: Can you describe your first match? How did you feel?
A: My very first match I was 11 years old and I got picked up and slammed. I ended up breaking my collar bone. Having that experience for my first match is what sparked the drive i have today to be the best in the world.
Q: What has been your proudest moment in wrestling so far?
A: When I was in 8th grade I got ranked number 1 in the country. I got to compete against a senior at Who’s Number One. I did end up beating her.
Q: How does it feel to be back with the team this season, what are your individual and team expectations?
A: My team is like my family. I look forward to wrestling with them every season. I love how we all come together. As a team and individual hopefully to win states.
Q: How has being a student-athlete helped you grow as a person?
A: Being an athlete made me realize my limit and how far I can push myself. Putting that into a school format has made it much easier to get the work done.
Q: What does it mean to you to represent your school as a student-athlete?
A: It means Bulldog pride.
Q: What lessons have you learned through wrestling that apply to your life outside the sport?
A:Ive learned nothing is ever as hard as it seems. You always have to take your first step, either it be a half step or a jump. Eventually you will get there.
Q: How would you describe the strengths and overall dynamic of your wrestling team?
A: We are a very positive team either win or loss. We always come together for each other.
Q: What’s your coach’s name and share one piece of advice from your coach that has stuck with you?
A: I have so many great coaches, they all give me great advice in times of need.
Q: What’s one thing you admire most about your coach’s leadership style?
A: They never let you give up on yourself, and they are always positive.
Q: What advice would you give to others who want to start wrestling?
A: You will never know your potential if you never give it a go. Remember baby steps are better then standing still.
Q: What’s your signature wrestling move, and does it have a cool name?
A: Its called the Cici. If you know you know.
Q: Have you ever had a match where something hilarious or unexpected happened? What was it?
A: I made a kid pass out. It definitely surprised me.
Q: If your team had a karaoke night, who would steal the show, and what song would they sing?
A: Gavin Vankirk, he definitely would steal the show. He would probably play the most random songs. Maybe something like I’m a gummy bear.
Q: If you could wrestle any celebrity, who would it be, and why?
A: I would love to fight against Rhonda Rousey. I have watched her flight since i was a little girl. I’ve always been obsessed with her. Hopefully one day I can meet her.
Q: If wrestling had walkout music like boxing or MMA, what would your theme song be?
A: Barbie world- Nicki Minaj, Ice Spice, Aqua.
Q: What is your favorite classroom subject?
A: Art
Q: What is your dream school/university?
A: MSU
Q: What is your favorite place to go eat?
A: Any place that has a triple hamburger, LOL.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Every National Park.
Q: What’s a hobby or activity you enjoy outside of sports?
A: Traveling, sketching, nature walks and swimming.
