On Nov. 25, tri sport athlete Hayden Huerta ‘27 became the first Rosary wrestler to win a gold medal. As a freshman, this was not only her first win but also her first tournament wrestling at the Laguna Hill Freshman Tournament. Along with wrestling, Hayden is a member of the flag football and softball teams. After her win, I had the opportunity to get an interview with Hayden about wrestling and her first tournament.
Q: Why did you decide to join wrestling?
A:I decided to join wrestling because I wanted to be a tri-sport athlete and my dad also wrestled in high school.
Q: How did you prepare for the tournament?
A: I prepared for my first tournament by practicing all my techniques that I have learned and trying to perfect them as much as possible
Q: How many girls did you compete against?
A: I competed against 3 girls
Q: What does a match day look like for you?
A: A typical match day is pretty long. I had to be at the tournament at 7:15 for weigh-ins. Afterwards, my teammates and I got some food. Then we warmed up. Afterwards, I waited for my weight class to be called. Then I went to where they call you and I got partnered up. Next, I fought my match. After, I waited for my next match which is typically 30 minutes to an hour.
Q: What does this accomplishment mean to you?
A: Winning first means a lot to me. Especially because I am the first Rosary wrestler in history to get first or even a medal.
Q: What is your favorite part of being on the wrestling team?
A: My favorite part about being on the wrestling team is all the memories I have made. It is really fun and I encourage people to join.
If you haven’t seen Hayden in action, come support the wrestling team at their next tournament at Santa Ana High School on Dec.9.
