Michael Spielman has won gold at regionals and qualified for states. 

Spielman first became interested in wrestling as a sport that he could enjoy. 

“I wouldn’t play any ball sports, and I had been doing karate for a couple of years,” he said.

Spielman works hard to build the physique necessary for wrestling. 

““[I practice] somewhere in the realm of twelve to fifteen hours a week,” Spielman said. 

Outside of the season, Spielman notes spending many hours continuing to train his body for when the next season comes around. This comes as a challenge to him to persevere.

“[I’ll do] four to five practices that are all two hours, plus weightlifting,” he said. ““It’s very difficult, so it’s a very rewarding sense to even just complete a season.” 

Spielman has seen his hard work pay off. He placed first place at the PIAA South East Region, 8th at the PIAA State Championship, won the district championship, the Donegal Holiday Invitational, and PA National Guard Wrestling Tournament.

Spielman believes his success comes from the presence he gives on the mat.

“I’m just really aggressive, and I am in good shape. I push the pace the whole match,” he said. “I try to control the match as much as I can.” 

Spielman believes that his willpower and work ethic is important as a wrestler and gives advice for prospect and newer wrestlers. 

“New wrestlers just need to understand that no matter what that they can work harder,” Spielman said.