As the only freshman on the Boys’ Varsity Wrestling team, Josh Edelheit has stepped into a role with high expectations, he said. Despite various challenges, Edelheit has embraced the opportunity to grow as a wrestler.
Edelheit began his wrestling journey in first grade and spent years developing his skills, he said The sport quickly became a large commitment for Edelheit. Outside of the school season, Edelheit trains with Built by Brunson Wrestling in Lake Forest, continuing to compete and improve his skills, he said. He spends five days a week in the wrestling room training with his club team, Edelheit said. He always shows up ready to ask questions and improve, taking advice from his coaches, Christopher Albandia, Boys’ Varsity Wrestling Assistant Coach, said.
“Edelheit puts time into wrestling beyond practices,” Albandia said. “Our schedule is demanding, so adding more practice time is a testament to his commitment.”
Before a match, Edelheit focuses on things that he can control, such as his first move, staying aggressive, and not overthinking. Trusting himself during a match has led him to one of his biggest achievements–placing second at the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association (IWCOA) Frosh-Soph State Championships, he said.
“Placing second opened my eyes,” Edelheit said. “It proved to me that there is no limit, and that I can be one of the best.”
While being on varsity has allowed him to compete at a higher level, it also brought more pressure to perform. Despite this, the team environment kept Edelheit motivated, he said.
“I have great teammates and my coaches mean a lot to me,” Edelheit said. “The community around wrestling is something I enjoy.”
Support from those around him has also played a major role in Edelheit’s journey. His father, Eric Edelheit, is his biggest supporter. He takes Josh to every practice and always does his best to help him improve. Josh’s ability to push through challenges has been his key to success on the mat, Eric said.
“Wrestling requires self-discipline and mental toughness,” Eric said. “In season, you live wrestling twenty four-seven.”
Josh aims to become a state champion by his senior year, he said. His past wrestling season showed him that there is always a next level to reach, Josh said.
“I like to know that when I step out there, I worked harder than the person in front of me,” Josh said. “I have a lot I want to accomplish, and that keeps me going.”
