March 11-12 the EOU Women’s wrestling team is headed to the NAIA National Tournament in Jamestown, North Dakota. Last weekend at the Cascade Conference Tournament nine wrestlers placed, with three bringing home first. Pictured above from left to right are Macy Higa (#123), Olivia Robinson (#170), and Morgan Shines (#143), who all won their weight classes. They and the rest of the placers will be wrestling at Nationals. Placing second was Kayla Moore (130), third were Stephanie Blankenship (109) and Nayeli Maston (143), fourth was Dempsi Talkington (155), fifth was Nayeli Flores Roque (101), and sixth was Krystal Fabricante (136). The team placed fourth overall in the conference.
I asked three questions for some insight into the CCC Champion wrestlers.
Macy Higa:
When did you start wrestling?
I started wrestling my freshman year of high school.
What’s one piece of advice you have for anyone wanting to succeed in college sports?
Time management! If you can organize your time well, you will have plenty of time for your sports practices, studying, and even some free time. It makes everything much easier and more enjoyable! I would also say to be open to getting uncomfortable. College sports will put you in situations within your sport and others that will be unfamiliar, but they will help you to become a better athlete and grow into the person you are meant to be. Most of all, have fun! It is definitely hard at times but 100% worth everything in the end. Looking back now as a senior I did not have the collegiate athletic experience I was expecting, given many odd variables including COVID-19, but I would not change anything that has happened.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
I would like to thank my family for pushing me to keep moving forward through all adversity and celebrating even the small successes. My teammates for being such a good support system and pushing me in every single practice and truly being the ones who got me to where I am today. Krystal specifically for being there since day one and being the most supportive friend/teammate anyone could ever ask for! Finally, Walt, Jorgy, Carlene, and Max for being some of the best coaches I have ever had and helping me to develop into the best wrestler and person I can be.
Morgan Shines:
When did you start wrestling?
I started wrestling my junior year at Chiawana High School, so about 6 years ago.
What’s one piece of advice you have for anyone wanting to succeed in college sports?
Some advice I would give to anyone wanting to succeed in college sports would be to be patient, listen, and give what you can each and every day. These are the keys I’ve used to consistently progress over the years and prove myself to coaches and teammates. It also doesn’t hurt to be a little smug sometimes too!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
I wish I could name every person that has helped me on my journey but I will say this: Thank you to everyone who has helped contribute to my knowledge on and off the mat and has supported me in my pursuit of betterment.
Olivia Robinson:
When did you start wrestling?
I started wrestling at the beginning of high school.
What’s one piece of advice you have for anyone wanting to succeed in college sports?
Everyone is on their own path and own levels. Make goals that are realistic for you and focus on your self progress, rather than compare to others. That said, use others to inspire and motivate your progress as well.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
I thank my supporters and my haters. They both play a part in my influence when training.
Good luck to all the wrestlers and coaches this weekend!
