The Kent Reporter Athletes of the Week for Dec. 12 are from Kentwood High School; Madelynn Hughes (Jr.) flag football and Jonathan Finnestad (Jr.) wrestling.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Hughes: I value working hard every practice and always giving your best. In my team I value communication and commitment, everyone working together is really important for success.
Finnestad: I value the hardworking nature of wrestling. Wrestling is a sport of mental toughness that enables you to push through even when things are difficult. The team coming together to support each other through the difficult times is very impactful.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Hughes: I’ve learned to never quit and try your best because in the future it’s important to not give up.
Finnestad:I have learned that I can do more than I think I am capable of. Discipline is an essential for life and wrestling is one of the best places to build that discipline. Wrestling has shown me how to face challenges head on while maintaining good character.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Hughes:Pray and talk to teammates.
Finnestad: When I am unmotivated I just make sure to keep showing up. Wrestling is a tough sport and it can be difficult to push through sometimes. When I want to quit, I just remind myself of what I am doing and what my goals are. Motivation for me comes from my faith and desire to make others live better.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Hughes: Chipotle
Finnestad: My favorite thing to eat before a match is a granola bar. After weigh-ins in the first thing I eat is a granola or protein bar because it’s easy, light, and give me the fuel to perform.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Hughes:Don’t quit, put in the work and remember that you are meant to be there and everyone has a spot on the field.
Finnestad: If a teammate of mine was struggling I would tell them to keep pushing and if they need help or guidance, they can always reach out to me. Sometimes people need a bit of encouragement to keep pushing.
From the sideline:
Hughes: Maddi is an exceptional student-athlete who consistently handles her responsibilities both in the classroom and on the football field. Her leadership, maturity, and football IQ make her feel like another coach on the field. She elevates her teammates, models the standard every day, and embodies what it means to be a Kentwood athlete.
Finnestad: Jonathan is a tireless worker who is willing to do whatever it takes to reach his goal. Jonathan won his first match against Kentridge by pin in the first period. Jonathan pinned 32 opponents last season.
Talk to us
Please share your story tips by emailing editor@kentreporter.com.
To share your opinion for publication, submit a letter through our website https://www.kentreporter.com/submit-letter/. Include your name, address and daytime phone number. (We’ll only publish your name and hometown.) Please keep letters to 300 words or less.
