WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 6) FEATURING JAKE HUGHES
In an electrifying segment of “Wrestling Wednesday” on YSN, freshman Jake Hughes of Beaver Local took center stage to discuss his meteoric rise in the high school wrestling scene. Hosted by DJ Yokley with contributions from Gary Althiser, the episode highlighted Jake’s accomplishments, mindset, and future aspirations.
Jake Hughes, who recently clinched the 157-pound title at the OVAC tournament, made a memorable impression not only with his performance but also with his post-victory celebration. “After that match, I kind of looked at him and he was like, let’s go. And I went over and grabbed it,” Jake recounted his flag-carrying moment, which has since become legendary among YSN fans. The young wrestler attributes his early success to rigorous training and high-level practice from a young age. “I’ve been training at the highest level all my life. So going out there on the high school mat’s no different than going out there with practicing with these kids my whole life,” Jake explained, underscoring the value of his preparation.
When asked about the nerves accompanying his freshman year, Jake remained unfazed. “Obviously, the nerves are there a little bit before every single match you have, but I try to make it more of like, excitement and turn it into more of a positive thing,” he shared, reflecting a maturity that belies his age. A key component of Jake’s training regime includes wrestling mindset sessions. These weekly lessons have been instrumental in helping him manage pressure and maintain focus. “It’s helped me out a lot over the past year… with relaxing under pressure and knowing that you’re ready,” he noted.
Gary Althiser, an experienced voice in the wrestling community, pointed out that Hughes’ rigorous tournament schedule, including stops at Cambridge, Brecksville, and EOWL, has been crucial in preparing him for the postseason. Jake concurred, acknowledging that every tournament is a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal. Despite his youth, Jake maintains a disciplined lifestyle, evident in his choice of post-weigh-in meals: a Pedialyte and an uncrustable peanut butter and jelly sandwich. His primary drilling partner, three-time state placer Bobby Bucheit, plays a significant role in pushing him to new heights in practice. The support system of coaches, particularly Adam Cabala, and his family has been pivotal in Jake’s success. “Adam Cabala has been my main coach, like, as far as outside of the Beaver Local room, and he’s been helping me a lot… [and] even like, my parents being there, supporting me when I’m at home,” Jake acknowledged.
Looking ahead, Jake aims not only for personal glory but also to honor the legacy of Beaver Local wrestling. When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Jake emphasized the importance of enjoying the journey: “Just to have fun with it because at the end of the day it is just a sport and you need to have fun with it.” As the wrestling community anticipates his future performances, Jake’s level-headed attitude and dedication suggest a promising career ahead. His current focus remains on taking one match at a time while keeping his ultimate goals in sight. Jake Hughes’ appearance on “Wrestling Wednesday” underscored not just his talent and potential, but also his humble, hardworking nature. His journey is one that wrestling enthusiasts will eagerly follow, as he continues to make his mark on the sport.
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