By Lisa Stukel, Contributing Writer
Team: Hudson High School varsity wrestling (captain), football (linebacker). Class of 2013.
Head Coach: Brendon O”Connell
Stats: David placed second in sectionals and in states, and fifth place in All-States. Weight class: 152 lbs.
David, when did you start wrestling?
“I started wrestling in fifth grade, when I was 11 years old. I started wrestling in the Hudson youth program, and Scott Parker was one of the coaches. He is now one of our assistant coaches here at the high school.”
Who has influenced you the most in wrestling?
“My father has influenced me the most. He encourages me and comes to all of my meets. My dad wrestled in high school and introduced me to the sport. He taught me how to wrestle when I was young and has been my biggest supporter ever since.”
What is your most memorable moment?
“I would say that it was this year, when I placed in All-States because it qualified me for the New England Tournament. My whole family was there to support me and it was really fun. Qualifying for the N.E. Tournament was my biggest goal for the season.”
How do you manage sports and academics?
“It is hard sometimes to manage sports and academics, but I think that sports helps you have a schedule to follow and keeps you focused. You know what you have to do, and only have a certain amount of time to get your work done. Sports helps keep you organized.”
Do you have any advice to younger athletes?
“Have fun with the sport and don's think of it as a pain or it is a lot of work. Run a lot and work on fitness. Being strong helps with mental toughness as well. Push yourself to get fit and strong. Don's get down on yourself if you have a bad meet; learn from your mistakes and you will do better the next time. Wrestling is the best sport, even when kids are small. It helps build muscles and mental toughness, which can help with other sports.”
In your opinion, what does it take to be a wrestler?
“I think that it takes mental toughness and discipline. Wrestling also requires a lot of dedication. You have to wrestle all year-round to really compete and improve. Staying physically fit is also key. Running a lot can help because it increases your endurance. Weight management is also very important in wrestling. It boils down to eating healthy and taking care of yourself.”
How do you train in the off-season?
“I wrestle all year-round in clubs and participate in tournaments. I also run and train with weights during the regular season and in the off-season.”
What are you goals for next year?
“Next year, I would like to continue improving and working hard. Ultimately, I would like to qualify and to place at the New England Tournament.”