Clarissa is a senior at Penn, starting her third season with the girls wrestling team.
What’s the best advice you could give to someone thinking about trying out wrestling? Don’t be scared of getting out of your comfort zone. We all started in the same place.
How do you deal with nerves before a match? I don’t deal with them. There isn’t a match that I don’t get nervous about. The key is knowing how to turn those nerves into adrenaline. Remember they are feeling the exact way you are feeling at that moment. It all comes down to who knows how to control it more.
What’s your favorite part about being on the team? Favorite part of being on the team other than being named four-time state champions is the personal relationships you form with your coaches who are always there for us, just a text away.
What is your go-to move? My go-to move is the move that I won my first match ever with, consisting of a bulldog or cradle if I’m lucky, maybe just a headlock
What traits do you think are important in a good teammate? Someone who is putting in the effort. If you are slacking off, that takes away from your partner’s workout. If you work hard you’re also helping to train your partner.
What is your favorite food to eat after a tournament? Subway, no question. Fast and delicious
What do you love most about wrestling? There are no try outs. There is no commitment. If you give it a try and decide it’s not for you can leave and say you tried something Xtreme!
What wrestler, coach, or teammate do you look up to? . I choose not to have a favorite, I think we all have made huge improvements compared to the first time we stepped on the mat. At this point it’s just about who wants it more and who is willing to put in the work.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from being on the team? Consistency is what will help you through the whole season. You have put in the time and make a constant effort to be a part of the team and training.
Do you have any pre-match rituals? I don’t have any specific rituals but I also just try and have fun. It’s not all seriousness 100% of the way it’s okay to giggle and lose focus sometimes, just remember that when it’s go time, it’s time to be Xtreme.
