Wrestling constitutes a trial of muscle and a clash of skill, where wrestlers go head-to-head for six minutes, where they exhibit their strength and wits in an intense battle. Among the many wrestling warriors at AFHS, Coach Kevin Carter selected sophomore Hayden Hunkele as an outstanding athlete and a valuable asset to the team.
For those who don’t know much about the sport, Britannica describes it as two competitors who try to force one another to touch the ground with any body part besides their feet. A contender must pin their opponent on the mat for a minimum of two seconds before the referee declares a winner of the round. Hunkele explains that generally the sport requires a lot from, “each athlete mentally, physically, and on and off the mat at all times.” Personally, he compares the sport to a game of chess, saying that “it’s just you and your opponent on the mat.”
COVID-19 has put a damper on everyone's plans and transitioning back to in-person learning has been a struggle for some, but Hunkele has persevered and had a great start to the season, citing his 11–4 record. “I feel pretty good about this season,” Hunkele says. “I feel like I am wrestling a lot better than last year.” Before matches, he gets into the zone and prepares to dominate his opponent by listening to music and shutting out distractions around him.
He goes on to express his love for the sport, saying that although he performs individually on the mat, he has a “brotherhood and sisterhood” with his teammates, who stand behind him. “We’ve won a few matches, lost a few matches, but overall, everyone is wrestling really well.” He feels that he has such an unbreakable bond with his teammates, and that spending time with an amazing group of friends helps make the sport worthwhile.
Not only does Coach Carter respect Hunkele for his irreplaceable contributions to the team, but his teammates Tyler Collins (11) and Daniel Christian (11) also recognize his expertise. Christian calls Hunkele a “true representation of the wrestling team” and Collins regards him as, “a very talented wrestler and a natural leader.” His teammates also say has such a positive impact on the people around him, and his hard work and dedication pays off tremendously in his matches.
Hunkele does not have any definite plans, but he would love to attend the Naval Academy, and possibly graduate to be an officer or commanding officer. If the academy does not work out, he mentions his interest in North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech. Hunkele has two more years here at AFHS, where he plans to continue being an impactful athlete, honorable student, and genuine friend. No matter what path he chooses, whether it be in the Navy or at a college here in North Carolina, Hunkele has people around him who believe in his talents that will lead him to a promising future.
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