Upperman wrestler Jude Fitzpatrick has been wrestling since seventh grade, a journey that began alongside his introduction to football. Now a junior, Fitzpatrick has carved out a name for himself in both arenas, balancing the physicality of football with the discipline and strategy demanded by wrestling.
“In the discipline sense, you got to keep going,” Fitzpatrick said. “There’s no waiting. If you’re down three points and you need a take down, there’s no waiting, there’s no patience to that but you got to go and set something up.”
Fitzpatrick said for as aggressive as wrestling can be, it can also be a sport about strategy. Fitzpatrick said a key component of his preparation is conditioning and technique.
“First thing is a lot of conditioning, lot of technique, making sure we get everything right,” Fitzpatrick said. “Mentally, [we have to understand] to go all out and not give up on anything easy.”
Fitzpatrick said during his meets, including his recent run at the TSSAA state tournament, he emphasized patience and persistence.
“If I’m able to see kind of what they’re doing and get a feel for them, it’s a lot easier than trying to guess or going just head first.” Fitzpatrick said.
Fitzpatrick has earned accolades throughout his time wrestling. He set records for fastest pin and most wins across multiple state tournaments. Fitzpatrick said his goal is getting back to Murfreesboro for the second time in three years.