While wrestlers are known for using their physical strength to overcome their opponents, what makes a successful wrestler, actually occurs in the mind.

This highly individualized sport depends heavily on each person’s independent work ethic. And the Akins wrestlers said they are working harder than ever before, determined to make this year better than last.

“To be a good wrestler, you need to be committed,” said wrestling coach Roy Tambunga.

The self-directed nature of the sport is what attracts athletes to wrestling. Lack of training and commitment to the sport will result in reduced chances of winning matches, said second year wrestler Robert Rodriguez.

“The thing with wrestling is what you put in is what you get out. It’s all you,” he said.

Some wrestlers applying previous athletic experiences and inspirations toward wrestling. Training regimens from football and mixed martial arts help keep them in shape and prepared to wrestle.

“I’ve been doing MMA for 4 years,” said first year wrestler Caryssa Aguerra. “Some techniques help a lot when I’m wrestling.”

Others with no previous experience commit to wrestle based solely off the inspiration of other wrestlers.

“My brother wrestled all four years of high school,” said first year wrestler Samuel Samingo. “My goal is become better than him.”

With high motivation coursing through these athletes now, the wrestlers are making strides toward success. The girl’s team won the Capitol Classic Tournament in November and wrestler.

“We have a very experienced team on the girls side this year,” coach Tambunga said. “The guys are mostly young but are learning to commit to wrestling. We expect the girls to make it to district.”

Veteran members of the team agree they’ve seen a much more distinct improvement on the team this year. Fourth year wrestler Anna Becerra, who has signed a letter of intent to wrestle for Lyon College, said she is looking forward to seeing what the team can accomplish this year.

“Our team is really good this year,” Becerra said.  “Sometimes they get off track but not nearly as much as last year.”

Despite the focus on self-direction and individual accomplishment, the team members help support each other throughout training and competition.

“I see this season being a good one for us,” said Coach Tambunga, “But I still hope the wrestlers continue to be committed to the sport.”

The wrestlers are looking forward to district competition, which begins in January. With continued hard work and commitment the wrestlers expect to do well.

“Last year I didn’t work as hard as I should have,” said second year wrestler Tiger Tejero. “But now I’m more dedicated. Because of it I am winning more matches.”

Most of the wrestlers, especially on the girls side, have very positive win-lose ratios and are expected to make this season a good one as it’s only recently just begun this year.