Big Man on Campus: Jeremy Wilson

Wilson is a third-generation wrestler at B-A

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Manning Photography

Jeremy Wilson is having a pretty special senior year.

If you are a boy in the Wilson family you live and breathe wrestling.

The Bellwood-Antis wrestling team is coached by Ron Wilson, whose father is also a wrestling coach.  Two of the brighter stars on the team are twin brothers Jeremy and Josh Wilson.

Senior Jeremy Wilson, the Blue Devils’ 182-pounder with a 14-2 record, has been participating in wrestling since first grade but has always had a huge interest in it.

“When I was younger, I spent a lot of time at matches with my dad and older brother.  So I jumped at the opportunity to sign up for elementary wrestling in first grade,” said Wilson.

Even though he has been wrestling since first grade, Wilson didn’t become devoted to wrestling until he reached high school where his specific training sharply increased.

For Wilson the hardest part in wrestling is the mental side.

“The most difficult aspect in my estimation is the mental side of the sport. Succeeding in wrestling requires a mental toughness like no other. At the same time, this is what makes the sport special to me, as only with this attribute can one even near the pinnacle of success,” he said.

Wilson doesn’t feel the pressure when wrestling for his dad. He’s glad to have such a triumphant father who has achieved so much.

“It’s an opportunity that I’m truly grateful for. Not only has my dad competed at some of the highest levels of the sport and amassed a great deal of knowledge about it, but we have been able to bond over the experience.  I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Wilson said.

It’s a huge deal to be involved in a sport that is really important to your family for generations.

“My brother and I are the third generation to be involved with the Bellwood wrestling program. For us, it’s more than just an activity to be involved with. We believe that there is a certain character building process that comes about because of wrestling that, in the long run, will make everyone that sticks it out a better and more successful person,” he said.

Wilson all in all is truly grateful for all the help and support that has gotten him where he is today.

“I just want to thank those around me, namely my family, coaches, and teammates. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Wilson.