Under the bright lights of YSN’s “Wrestling Wednesday,” the spotlight fell on senior wrestling phenom Tristan Eckles. With a season still sparkling from his undefeated streak, Tristan stepped into the studio, ready to share insights and stories that have shaped his journey so far. Hosts Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and special guest Scotty Mincher leaned in, eager to unpack the discipline, determination, and drive behind his success.

Tristan’s presence exuded a calm confidence—one that has been meticulously cultivated. Reflecting on his pre-match routine, he recounted how he deliberately avoids getting caught up in the rankings and statistics of his opponents. “I try to clear my mind and focus on my technique,” he said. “Stress can be a wrestler’s greatest enemy.” It’s a strategy that has served him well, grounding him in the fundamentals while others might be lost in the hype.

Behind every great athlete, there’s often a mentor who provides both wisdom and inspiration. For Tristan, that mentor is his father, a former state placer and OVAC champion. “I’ve always looked up to him,” Tristan admitted. “His support has been invaluable.” Surpassing his father’s accolades isn’t just a goal—it’s a challenge that fuels Tristan’s drive. Yet, the bond they share transcends competition. They have wrestled together countless times, each bout reinforcing the strength of their relationship. “He’s still got the size advantage over me,” Tristan laughed, acknowledging his father’s tenacious spirit, even with a knee injury.

One of the more surprising revelations from Tristan was his approach to emotional regulation. Eschewing the typical pre-match playlist that many athletes swear by, Tristan finds solace in silence. “Music makes me too emotional,” he confessed. “It’s better for me to stay calm and centered.” This mental clarity extends beyond the mat, reflecting in how he balances his academic pursuits. Math and science—his favorite subjects—demand the same analytical mindset that wrestling does. “It’s about problem-solving in real-time,” he noted, drawing a parallel between his studies and his sport.

Tristan’s journey is not a solitary one. He trains with partner Damon Stansberry, whose technical prowess and strength push him to new heights. “Having someone like Damon to drill with is crucial,” he said. “He exposes my weaknesses and helps me improve.” This collaborative spirit is also present in his interactions with coaches Josh Stansbury, Jeremy Shaw, and Jeff Wright, whom he acknowledged for their relentless dedication and strategic insights.

Looking ahead, Tristan is considering multiple paths. College wrestling beckons, but he also has an eye on military service or even cage fighting—a testament to his all-encompassing athletic ambition. “Whatever I choose, the values and discipline I’ve learned from wrestling will guide me,” he affirmed. His plan remains fluid, yet driven by a core commitment to excellence and growth.

In a lighter moment, Tristan indulged in a bit of post-weight cut nostalgia, expressing a deep affection for McDonald’s and Chipotle. “There’s nothing like a good burger or burrito after making weight,” he smiled. His go-to drink? Chocolate milk—a simple yet deeply satisfying reward after the rigors of weight management. Towards the end of his interview, Tristan extended heartfelt gratitude to those who have been instrumental in his journey. From his family to his friends, each shout-out was a testament to a support network that has stood by him through highs and lows. “They’ve all played a part in my story,” he concluded, exemplifying the humility and groundedness of a true athlete.

 

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