Tag Archive for: Wrestling Wednesday

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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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 5) FEATURING ALEX HACKWELDER

HUBBARD, OH – In a spotlight interview on the latest episode of Wrestling Wednesdays on YSN Live, Hubbard senior wrestler Alex Hackwelder opened up about reaching the milestone of 100 career wins, his philosophy on the sport, and his future aspirations. The episode, hosted by Anthony Hartwig, Gary Althiser, and Scotty Mincher, was an insightful look into the life and mindset of one of the area’s top young athletes.

Achieving his 100th win last Friday at Fitch, Hackwelder described the experience as a significant and emotional accomplishment. “It’s what you…one of the milestones you work for as soon as you start your freshman year,” said Hackwelder, highlighting the long-term dedication and effort behind his success. Celebrating this milestone alongside his team and family made the moment even more special. Hackwelder shared the importance of his training partners and coaches in his journey. He currently drills with teammates Benjamin Logan and receives coaching frim others, who provide varied challenges and support. “It’s nice to get different feels and get some different guys here and there…to work with different guys and get different feels is really important to me,” Hackwelder noted.

Reflecting on the legacy of past team leaders like Nick Bowser, Hackwelder conveyed the responsibility he feels as a senior to continue raising the bar for the Hubbard wrestling program. “It’s really important to carry on what we learned from those guys last year…and try to do our best to replicate that,” he said. Hackwelder’s goals for the current season include a Northeast Eight Championship and standing atop the podium at the state championships in Columbus. Beyond personal achievements, he aspires to leave a lasting positive impact on the program. “I kind of want to leave a positive mark on the program and be remembered as somebody that…helped out his teammates as well and did everything he can for just the program, not just myself,” he added.

Balancing mental and physical preparation is key for Hackwelder, who emphasizes the importance of mindset in wrestling. He admitted struggling with confidence in the past but now focuses on enjoying the sport and its challenges. “I’m just trying my best to go have fun…that really helps me to settle down and put into perspective that, you know, it’s just a sport and I’m just going out there to have fun,” Hackwelder shared. Looking to the future, Hackwelder is considering attending a four-year college, potentially continuing in athletics, and majoring in engineering. He emphasized the invaluable life lessons wrestling has taught him, which he believes will serve him well in any future endeavors.

As the interview concluded, Hackwelder took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his journey, including his teammates, coaches, and family. “I hope they know that they’re all very important to me… and to feel them supporting me and to know they’re watching just kind of gives me that extra boost sometimes when it’s a little tough,” he expressed. Alex Hackwelder’s story is an inspiring testament to hard work, perseverance, and the love of the sport, capturing the essence of what it means to be a dedicated athlete and leader.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAY WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 12) FEATURING ADDISON PAPARELLA & ZOEY BEAMER

Districts are here! After a hugely successful sectional tournament over the weekend, plenty of YSN wrestlers have gotten themselves one step away from a trip to Columbus.  However, as we all know that final step gets a bit higher as the calendar flips to districts.  The best wrestlers across the region get together to fight for limited spots.  With the next round being the hardest yet, we wanted to take the time to celebrate some great performances in the sectional round! This episode of Wrestling Wednesday features a pair of East Palestine Bulldogs who have punched their tickets.  Join Gary Althiser, Chris Colucci, and Scotty Mincher as they talk to their special guests, and preview the district rounds!

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