Wyatt Freeman returns to the Mount Baker wrestling program after placing sixth at the 2024 Mat Classic in the 1A 165-pound division. The senior Mountaineer is looking to return to the state tournament either at 165 or 175 pounds.
Freeman, who began wrestling at 4 years old after watching his older brother wrestle at youth practices, said the sport has taught him valuable lessons.
“It teaches you a lot of discipline [and] hard work, and it’s one of the toughest things you can do in high school,” Freeman said. “This is one of the most amazing things in my life.”
Because wrestling is a physically demanding sport, many athletes go through tough moments as they develop. Freeman developed his mental strength when he reached high school.
“There have been tough moments many years, but halfway through freshman year, I thought wrestling wasn’t my thing,” Freeman said. “I started to think, ‘When was this going to be over?’ That is when my team was essential because they lift you up and take you along the way.”
Since freshman year, Freeman has won five tournaments, placing second in two tournaments and third in another. Freeman believes his success comes from listening to his coaches and working harder than his competitors.
Freeman recognized his hard work paid off in the 1A Region 1 tournament last season.
“I had a kid I have wrestled multiple times and it was a bloodbath most of the time,” Freeman said. “Something kicked for me and it was one of my biggest matches. I was able to keep up with him.”
Freeman is looking to finish his wrestling career at Mount Baker High School this season. Once he graduates, he will decide about going to college or entering the workforce.
Nick Zeller-Singh is CDN's sports reporter; reach him at nickzellersingh@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 104.
