As the wrestling season approaches, athletes across the program are sharpening their skills and preparing for months of competition. Two wrestlers leading the charge are Sameer Hartman and Jessa Dykstra, both entering the year with determination, discipline and clear goals for what they hope to achieve.
Hartman heads into the season with a strong focus on technique and conditioning. He spent the preseason improving fundamentals and increasing endurance to stay competitive late in matches. One of his biggest challenges has been maintaining stamina in the final periods, which pushed him to place a greater emphasis on conditioning in his routine. He has set ambitious personal goals, including placing near the top at state.
Hartman also brings a confident mentality into every match. “If I’m locked in and conditioned, no one can really mess with me,” he said. That mindset comes from years of learning, growth and understanding the effort he puts in day after day. Beyond his own development, Hartman supports younger wrestlers by helping them strengthen their technique and stay focused during practice. He believes wrestling builds discipline, mental toughness and resilience that extend far beyond the mat. When it comes to balancing school and wrestling, Hartman keeps it simple: stay consistent, work hard and manage time wisely.
For Jessa Dykstra, this season is all about improvement. “I’m most excited to see my progression throughout the season,” she said. She is also looking forward to competitive matchups, particularly against strong wrestlers from West Central. Her preseason focused on defensive strategies, including how to escape tough positions and respond effectively to different moves.
Dykstra has also taken training into her own hands by practicing outside scheduled hours, working on technique and endurance to prepare for long, challenging matches. Her personal goal is simple but powerful: win most of her matches. She steps onto the mat with a determined mindset. “Take them down and know that if I put in my best, I’ll get an outcome I deserve,” she said.
Dykstra credits her teammates for helping her improve. They keep her on track, challenge her during practice and provide constant support. This year, she is especially focused on improving her crossface, takedowns and snapdowns. Her biggest motivation comes from her team, especially her brother, whose encouragement inspires her to keep pushing. Balancing school and wrestling also requires discipline. Dykstra stays focused on academics during the day, then shifts into a competitive mindset once practice begins each evening.
Fueled by dedication, both Hartman and Dykstra enter the season with a shared commitment to growth, hard work and mental toughness. With sharpened technique, stronger conditioning and clear motivation, they are poised to make a strong impact this year. Their dedication reflects a team ready to compete, improve and aim for a successful wrestling season.
