Sunlake High School’s junior and wrestler, Marco Rivera, recently showcased his prowess at the annual “Beauty and the Beast” meet, a unique event where the wrestling team competes alongside the girls’ weightlifting team. At the meet Sunlake weightlifters and wrestlers went up against Cypress Creek High School. With dedication and passion, Marco has become a seasoned wrestler, now in his third year being involved in wrestling. Reflecting on the recent competition, Marco shared, “At the competition, our team beat Cypress Creek 52 to 25, I think.” His commitment to the sport is evident in his individual success as well, as he confirmed, “Yes, I did win.”

While celebrating his achievements, Marco remains focused on self-improvement. “I feel like I did well, but I can always do better,” he remarked. Acknowledging the challenges, he added, “Yes, I definitely could have done better, such as at our latest duel against Land O’ Lakes. I definitely did not wrestle how I should have.” For Marco, wrestling is not just a sport; it’s a way of life. He passionately expressed, “I think this is the realest sport that you can do because you are fully responsible for your victories and your losses in wrestling.” Emphasizing the individual accountability, he highlighted the sport’s essence: “If you work hard enough, you can outwork anyone to win that gold medal.”

Beyond the mat, Marco appreciates the holistic experience of wrestling. “I love everything about the sport. I love the grind, the toughness of it, and the bond you make with the team; it’s like a family,” he shared. Marco Rivera exemplifies the spirit of dedication that defines Sunlake High School’s wrestling program, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and his teammates.