Hard work and dedication are the keys to success for Ottumwa High School senior, Vincent Vass.
In February, Vass earned his first trip to the State Wrestling Tournament in Des Moines after a successful high school career. “He is one of, if not the hardest working individuals I’ve ever coached,” said Jeremy Frueh, head wrestling coach. “He works hard in the weight room, in the classroom, and in the wrestling room. That is why he was so successful.”
“Making it to state was pretty nice,” said Vass. “I love the sport.” He started wrestling in eighth grade at the suggestion of his dad.
His work ethic allows him to continue wrestling at the next level. Cornell College offered him an academic scholarship. He will pursue a pre-pharmacy degree and wrestle for the Rams.
Wrestling is a very physical sport requiring a lot of strength and cardio endurance, according to Vass. “Mentally, it is pretty difficult sometimes. Before a match I separate myself, focus myself, and get ready, making a plan,” Vass said.
During the off-season, he does weight lifting every day and wrestles two or more times per week. “I wrestle year round,” he said. Currently he is wrestling in tournaments to maintain and improve his skills.
He credits his teammates for supporting his passion. “You wrestle with these people every day,” he said. “You build a bond when you work together. We endure the same things and help each other get better.”
His dedication in the wrestling room rivals that of the classroom. He will take more than 10 college credits with him to Mt. Vernon and is currently completing AP Chemistry. “Hard work and dedication pay off in the long run,” he said.
