Stanley-Boyd senior Carter Weltzin has been named this week’s Athlete of the Week for his dedication and strong performance on the mat this season. Weltzin has been wrestling since elementary school, and his love for the sport has only grown over the years. When asked what inspired him to try wrestling, he said, “I started wrestling when I was in first grade and what inspired me to keep going out was to be with my friends and I just really enjoyed the sport.”
Family support has played a major role in his wrestling journey. “My parents have been a big inspiration to me in my wrestling journey. They get me up early to go to tournaments and practices. They sit in bleachers and cheer for me at tournaments,” Weltzin said.
This season has not come without its challenges. Weltzin is currently battling through an injury, but his determination has never wavered. One match in particular stands out as a defining moment for him. “The match that stands out to me most is probably my second match of the year against the ranked wrestler from Edgar. I went all three periods with him, and it just showed me that I can wrestle anyone no matter how good they are,” he said. That match gave him confidence and reinforced that he can compete at a high level.
Weltzin has already made his mark this season, placing 4th at the New Richmond Invite on January 3 and placing 3rd at the home tournament held at Stanley-Boyd on December 19th, showing his ability to compete against tough opponents from across the region.
Head coach Jake Fitzsimmons praised Weltzin’s perseverance, noting that although he is recovering from an injury, Weltzin had already earned a spot on the podium earlier this year. That accomplishment highlights his talent and the strong start he had before injury slowed him down.
Looking ahead, Weltzin has set ambitious goals for the season. “My goal this year is to get 1st at conference and another goal that I would like to reach is to make it to state,” he shared.
Even while dealing with setbacks, Carter Weltzin continues to show perseverance and passion for wrestling. His hard work, positive attitude, and drive to achieve his goals make him a well-deserving Athlete of the Week and a great representative of Stanley-Boyd athletics.