Throughout the many years of blood, sweat, and tribulations, Sophomore Christian Legler has continued to go above and beyond, pushing himself past his limits to be the absolute best wrestler he can be.

   It was in middle school that Legler began his venture in wrestling. “My first exposure was when I was in eighth grade and I came down the hill from Standley Middle School to give wrestling a shot,” said Legler. “The first couple practices were hard, but I also had a lot of fun doing it. It was also a huge confidence boost, especially for a kid who was 4’10” and ninety-two pounds.”

   Legler’s interest and passion for wrestling are just as intense as when he started. “I love wrestling. My favorite part about it is going out on the weekend and competing, going all out. Then after a hard day, going to In-N-Out with the team for some double-doubles and milkshakes,” said Legler.

   As a seasoned wrestler, Legler helps his teammates and supports the team as a whole. “I think I’m a good role model when it comes to staying disciplined,” said Legler. He continued, “I try to bring the energy at practices and pump up all my peers while also helping them when they need it.”

   “I do feel like having Christian as a teammate has definitely had a positive effect on me,” said Freshman Alex Lin. Lin continued, “What I appreciate about him the most is that he encourages the team to perform to the best of our ability, and calls us out when we slack off. I believe it takes a hefty amount of skill to be able to give critical feedback and still make it come off as helpful and encouraging.”

   “Christian is always helpful in leading by example for the freshman and sophmores,” said Senior Captain Pierce Curry. “His hard work ethic and positive attitude rubs off on everyone and brings good energy to the entire wrestling room. It is exciting to see him wrestle and I cheer him on in between my matches at tournaments, and it gives me further inspiration to compete at my best.”

   Wrestling has had a very positive effect not only on his teammates, but also on Legler himself. Legler said, “I’ve met some great wrestlers that have wrestled in the past. Some Olympians,

head coaches of successful university wrestling programs, and even a Super Bowl winner, each having their own story to tell, all of which are really inspiring and eye opening to me.”

   Curry noted Legler’s incredible work ethic. Curry stated, “Christian is always hard working when necessary, and without him, we wouldn’t have someone the younger guys could look up to or take as an example. At the end of the day, with a non senior heavy team, he’s a perfect example of a leader.”

   When thinking about the future, Legler has no doubt in his mind that wrestling will most likely always be a part of his life. “As of now, I have no intention of wrestling in college, but who knows, things always change,” said Legler.