Obviously, a significant motivating factor for me to return was because I had unfinished business.
I’m going to do everything in my power to win a national title in the 22-23 season. But there’s more to it than that.
I’ve been at Kent State for six years now. My teammates like to remind me how old I am — though I much prefer being referred to as a seasoned vet.
Regardless, I feel a great joy and responsibility in mentoring the younger guys on the team.
Listen, Division I wrestling is tough. Division I sports in general are tough.
For every victory that builds you up, a crushing defeat is waiting to tear you back down. That’s just the reality of what we signed up for.
No one knows this better than me, and I learned this lesson the hard way.
So, I truly enjoy being a leader for these guys to give them advice and help this program grow.
Kent State saved me from fixing leaks for the rest of my life, so I’ll always be grateful to this school and wrestling program and give back in any way that I can.
It’s also paved a path for me once I graduate, as I plan to take the skills I learned here and transition them into the MMA cage.
Only time will tell if I win my national title in March, and how my MMA career will turn out, but of all the things I’ve learned at Kent State, I’m not going to let these goals consume me.
Instead, I’ll let these aspirations fuel me, and I’ll give it my best with a smile on my face.
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