Meet Marion wrestler Caleb Ohnesorge
MARION, Ill. — Wrestling provides a unique opportunity for its participants. While athletes are on the mats as individuals, they are also wrestling as a team. And for Marion Wildcat senior Caleb Ohnesorge, that mix has put him in a position to excel as an individual, and use that a tool to lead others.
The 18-year-old says he hopes he can translate his experience in high school to a career that involves mentoring others.
“I hope to continue to find success at the high school level,” he said. “My dream is to have my education paid for due to the sport. Eventually, I wish to give back to the sport by coaching.”
Ohnesorge fully understands the demands wrestling bring.
“It can be difficult to endure the season,” he said. “Wrestling is a grueling sport, but our coaches do an amazing job at preparing us. We often train twice a day, changing focus every week to grow our stamina and technique.”
That hard work can be measured by on the mat successes, but there are other ways to measure it as well.
“My father has always told me not to focus on the outcome, but to focus on my effort and attitude,” Ohnesorge said. “Like many, I tend to overwhelm myself with anxious energy. Focusing on factors I can control settles me down and allows me to compete without any worries.”
Caleb says one of his favorite things about wrestling is the chance to go on road trips with his teammates.
“I love traveling for competition,” he said. “I enjoy being with my team and watching them build as we go further into the season.
“Becoming the team captain has taught me how to lead. The role has allowed me to aid in teaching and developing our new wrestlers.”
Caleb says he has received important instruction and advice from his coaches as well.
“My coach often says you perform the way you practice,” he said. “This keeps me and my teammates working hard every day.”
All sports have their ups and downs. Wrestling is no exception. For Ohnesorge, there are many routines that have to be kept in order to be on top of your game, including daily living.
“I’ve failed to properly diet early in my career, leading to missing weight at competitions or competing at weights that were not the best for the team,” he said. “Now I take my preparation seriously while competing at lighter weights.”
When he’s not on the mats, Caleb finds plenty of ways to stay busy.
“I spend time with my family, friends and pets,” he said. “I enjoy cooking and doing construction with my dad.”
On the mat, there are other routines that keep him focused.
“Quick stints of prayer and meditation with affirmations of confidence to help me ease nerves,” he said.
As he nears the end of his high school career, Ohnesorge has a message for anyone interested in wrestling.
“I encourage more students to go out for their school’s wrestling program,” he said. “This sport has grown so much while I have been a part of it and I have seen it positively impact a number of lives.”
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