Sweat. Combat. Power. Takedown. Southern Lehigh’s wrestlers have been fighting their way through meets all winter, while acknowledging the recognizable challenges wrestlers face to pull off a successful season. It’s no secret that eating habits are a struggle for those who participate in this grueling sport.

“One of the most challenging aspects of wrestling is maintaining your weight group,” sophomore Chris Venezia said. “It’s a constant battle between eating to fuel your body and eating just enough to be able to match.” 

Each wrestler is assigned a weight class and must remain within its range to compete. As a result, many wrestlers must lose weight to remain eligible for competition. 

According to a 2021 article posted by Trine University’s Center for Sports Studies, the number of competitors in wrestling has significantly grown over the years, resulting in a much higher quantity and frequency of matches during each season. Their research showed that high school wrestlers commonly engage in harmful weight-loss methods which have negative repercussions for the sport and have led to the deaths of some wrestlers. A lack of water and malnutrition causes these severe situations due to unhealthy weight loss. 

“I feel the weight class issue of wrestling is very pointless,” sophomore Alex Lea said, “although, I do understand that without it, it may cause many unfair advantages for the athletes.” 

The study goes on to say that coaches seem to be tightening in protocols, and do not permit their athletes to compete if they are not within their given weight class.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has called attention to the dangerous actions of these wrestlers and has made numerous changes to the weight classes and weight loss programs. They have installed nutritious eating plans for the wrestlers corresponding to their weight goal, and lessons on how to maintain it. The NCAA has argues that weight class guidelines have allowed many athletes to be aware of their weights, staying safer and in better shape for their matches. 

“I feel that proper weight loss or gain is a fundamental part of the sport, but in doing so, it places your body in tough and weary conditions,” senior Deacon Dickenson said. “I love wrestling, though, because winning a match is one of the best feelings, and it keeps me in great shape.” 

Many wrestlers are aware of the physical and mental costs of participating in this demanding sport, but their passion for it outweighs the challenges. The bonds among the teammates provide a safety net for these athletes. 

“I love the sport. That is why I do it,” sophomore Josh Sirard said. “We all look out for each other, making sure we are all healthy and alert.”

The Spartans’ team record has significantly improved over last season’s 2-8 record, due to the stronger bonds the team has developed. Each team member is growing from one another, calling attention and awareness  to their health.

“Our team this year is way closer than last season,” sophomore Ryan King said. “During the early morning practices we all play handball before weightlifting and hype one another up before matches, screaming each other’s name.” 

Southern Lehigh students like junior Brandon Verna recognize the wrestlers’ dedication to their sport and try to support them through the winter season. 

“I know Southern Lehigh’s school spirit is low for wrestling, but I can see our Spartans wrestling team is determined and passionate,” Verna said. “Southern Lehigh is six and six right now, and I think that is awesome; I hope we can make it to districts this year.”