Wrestling is an incredibly mental sport. It’s individual, with one winner and one loser. Gunner Benedict, ’25, explains just how challenging it can be, but how his love for the sport is what drives him to succeed.
By: Emma Jenan
Gunner Benedict, ’25, is a member of the Redwood Boys Varsity wrestling team. Benedict has been a part of the team for all four years, but he started his wrestling career when he was ten. Benedict says, “I am proud to say that in my career I have accomplished over 100 wins.”
According to Benedict, “The best part about my sport is having an amazing set of coaches and teammates that constantly push me to do my best.”
When asked what the highlight of his senior season will be, Benedict says, “Definitely the state tournament. That is the main event of the season.”
Benedict feels that his team is one of the key reasons for his success the past four years. “Our team environment is incredibly dedicated, everyone is trying to get better and constantly improve,” says Benedict.
Photo J.Villarreal/Gigantea
Benedict plans to take his career past high school, continuing to compete at the JUCO level.
Michael Wright Jr. has been the Redwood Boys Varsity wrestling coach for the past four seasons. Wright explains, “Coaching this team everyday is a joy, everyday I go into the room knowing that everyone will have a good attitude and be ready to improve.”
Wright feels that the season has been going exceptionally well, but there is still, “plenty of room for improvement before the postseason.” He describes the team as, “Able to take coaching and make the necessary changes to get better every week.”
When asked about Benedict, Wright replies, “Gunner is a very specific wrestler. His ability to pin people from any position, which makes you nervous as a coach, is very enjoyable to watch.”
One word Wright would use to describe Gunner is, “Special, because he has a great personality and is always happy, which makes coaching him a lot of fun every day.”
Emma Jenan
Emma Jenan is a '25 second year journalism member of the Redwood Gigantea. She is interested in writing any article, but sports stories are her favorite. Emma is a part of the redwood tennis team, and is a varsity member. You can reach her by email:
emma.je8807@vusd.us
Tags: #athlete, #profile, #rhs, #sports, #wrestling, rangers, Redwood, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, redwood rangers, redwood sports, redwood wrestling, rhs, rhs wrestling, visalia ca
I always look forward to spotlight stories. I like to learn about the kids that make Redwood great.