As the wrestling season continues to test the Selma Bears on the mats, it also strengthens the bond between the fellow wrestlers through shared grit and determination. Welcoming new teammates to this world of sweat and self-discipline gives them the chance to connect through the ambition to improve, compete, and win. Through long practices, tough scrimmages, and constant encouragement, these athletes learn to rely on one another. A sport for individual wins quickly turns into a win for the unioned team.
Freshman Ranvir Singh is a new wrestler to join the roster this year, hoping to create new memories and stick with the support for the rest of high school. He enjoys the care and support his teammates bring to him on and off the mats.
“Being on this team is like having a new family,” Singh expresses. “They are all so encouraging and helpful to a new member like me. I was nervous that I would look clueless, but they helped [me] quickly catch up.”
For newcomers like Singh, this sense of belonging and acceptance in this physically and mentally demanding sport is very rewarding. With the guidance from experienced teammates, new wrestlers gain confidence in their abilities. This atmosphere is one that allows freshmen to adjust to the demanding sport.
“I am among a couple of new wrestlers at Selma High and [new to] the sport,” says Singh. “ This sport is very demanding, I have to be aware of my weight class and ensure that no preeminent injuries occur.”
Late nights practicing can wear beginners out, with the tough practice matches, strength building, and being careful of what you eat. It can be a lot of a newcomer to take in, even overwhelming. Yet with the support of Coach Pepe Mendoza and senior wrestlers, a newcomer can make it out the wrestling season with a new ambition for the new years season and a new insight on what they want their matches to look like.
As the wrestling season continues their scrimmages on their match, they also continue to grow as a team. The wrestling team is heading to the D1 Valley Championships which starts on Friday, February 13th and ends on Saturday, February 14th.
