Athlete of the Week: Jacob Giese

Athlete: Jacob Giese

Sport: Wrestling

Weight class: 195 pounds

School: Bonduel High School

Year: Junior

Jacob Giese capped his first state experience with a third-place finish in Division 3 on Feb. 24 at the Kohl Center in Madison. The junior, who has been wrestling since age 6, posted a 44-7 record this season and won the 195-pound Central Wisconsin Conference title.

Q: Where did your interest in wrestling begin?

A: My interest was sparked when I was in kindergarten, and my parents introduced me to the sport.

Q: What’s your favorite part about wrestling?

A: That it’s an individual sport with great team camaraderie.

Q: What was the best part of your first state experience?

A: How excited the crowd got with each match.

Q: What is your favorite memory so far of Bonduel wrestling?

A: My favorite memories so far were made at state with some of my best friends.

Q: Was there a victory this season that was the most satisfying for you?

A: Pinning Caleb Johnson (of Riverdale) at state (in the quarterfinal), because I knew I was making it on the podium.

Q: What athlete do you look up to and why?

A: One of the athletes I look up to is my uncle Kevin Giese because he was a state champion in high school wrestling. He always supports me, and he’s a great role model.

Q: Do you have any pre-match rituals?

A: Yes, I pray before every match both on and off the mat.

Q: What are your goals for the season next year?

A: Improving my fundamental wrestling skills, going undefeated, winning conference again and placing first at state.

Q: Favorite sports team?

A: The Green Bay Packers. Why? Because they are OUTRAGEOUS!!!

Q: Favorite TV show, movie, musical artist?

A: Favorite TV show: “The Walking Dead.” Favorite movie: “Monsters, Inc.” Favorite musical artist: Billy Squire.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or verse?

A: Romans 1:16 (“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”) Also: “Champions don’t show up to get everything they want; they show up to give everything they have.” — Alexander Den Heuer