SSN: Athlete Feature Jake Simone 

Perseverance through Defeat 

The bright lights shine down on the lit stage as if the sun were in the area. The pressure is on and it is evident from the crowd. The location is the IHSAA State Wrestling Championships and it is the “do or die” round on Friday night at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. If Jake Simone wins, he is a state placer and is in HSEs history book, but if he loses then his season is done. The match was grueling and eventually the third period ended with a score 1-1. It was overtime, next takedown wins, and the intensity was unmatched. Simone gets in on a shot and finishes on his opponent. Simone said, “This was one of the most important moments of my whole life, achieving such a huge goal in front of so many people”.  Simone had a career win, but the year before it was completely different.

Last year at semi-state was a different story. Simone was the heavy favorite going into the ticket round match to make it to state. He was winning 6-2 when he was hit in a huge move and was pinned. He lost and his season was over. His motivation was shot and all he felt was defeat. Jake said, “After this loss, I had trouble finding motivation with anything, with helps of friends and family I was able to overcome this”.  Through all this defeat Simone was able to bounce back and become a state placer  

The expectations are high for now senior Jake Simone this year. “I expect Jake to be a great leader, and to win another state medal (hopefully a blue one)” Head wrestling coach Nick Brobst said. This is a huge expectation from a coach, but Simone has earned this.  Simone is also making the team better. Lifelong teammate and wrestling partner, Sam Crousore, said, “Having a partner of Jakes caliber is extremely helpful as you gain experience with one of the best in the state. He pushes me to become the best athlete I can be”.  

Needless to say, Simones expectations are very high this year, and many believe he is ready to excel past all of these as he is ranked number 3 in state at 120.  The student body will all be ready to watch and see what he is able to do.