Taylor Smith, Sports Editor
In a recent interview, Jesus Baez said “making it to state” was the only goal he had in the back of his mind before beginning his final wrestling season.
That dream would become reality for Baez after he took the district title on February 15th, but his road to state was anything but a cakewalk.
“I beat [Narciso Hidalgo] earlier in the year and we wrestled two weeks later and he beat me,” Baez stated as he recalled his competition in the 1st place match. “He got put as the #1 seed at districts, we went to overtime and I came out on top in the end.”
The four-sport athlete was complimentary of this year’s Eagle Grove coaching staff, especially new addition Zach Boyer and longtime coach and role model Aaron Schafer.
“Coach Boyer came in this year and I’d say that’s a big part of the reason I was able to accomplish my goal,” Baez commented. “He pushed me a ton.”
Jesus also explained that he wouldn’t be the wrestler he is today if not for Coach Schafer’s prodding and encouragement.
“Coach Schafer always asked me about wrestling, but my parents wouldn’t let me because they were scared I would get hurt,” remembered Baez. “I started wrestling in 6th grade because he was begging my parents and they finally let me.”
The 285-pounder gradually improved over the years and eventually peaked at the perfect time.
“The past three years I’ve gone and watched state but never actually knew what it was like,” said Baez. “Going into The Well under those tunnels is pretty sweet.”
“It meant a ton,” he added. “I’ve been working at that since freshman year. I got 4th at districts my sophomore and junior years and finally made it this year.”
After competing against the best at Wells Fargo Arena, Baez feels like he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to.
“Wrestling is the hardest sport. There’s a reason why not everyone can do it. It’s mentally tough, but it prepares you for everything.”
