Athlete Profile: Brendan Konitzer

OCONTO FALLS — The Oconto Falls High School wrestling team has enjoyed a successful season, with senior Brendan Konitzer serving as a vital role for the team.

Konitzer was ranked ninth in the 113-pound weight class in the wiwrestling.com Feb. 11 updated rankings.

In Oconto Falls’ nine North Eastern Conference duals, Konitzer finished with a 7-2 record. His efforts in conference play didn’t go unnoticed, as he was named to the all-conference second team.

Konitzer has also turned in several strong finishes at tournaments and invitationals this season.

The senior placed third at the Pulaski Invitational on Feb. 1 and the St. Croix Falls Wrestling Classic on Jan. 25.

Along with 11 of his teammates, Konitzer will spend the week getting ready for the Division 2 Oconto Falls Sectional. To qualify for state, wrestlers must place in the top three spots in their respective weight classes.

Q: When did your interest in wrestling begin?

A: My three older brothers (Logan, Evan, and Justan) were in it and I found interest in it at the age of three.

Q: What is your favorite part about the wrestling season?

A: Being able to practice and bond with the team.

Q: You just entered the postseason in your senior season of wrestling. What kind of goals do you still want to accomplish this season?

A: My goal is to make it to state and hopefully make it on the podium.

Q: Having it be the postseason also means every time you step on the mat could be your last time doing so in high school. How do you plan to handle your emotions with so much on the line?

A: Wrestle every match knowing it could be my last and wrestle with everything I have — leave it all on the mat.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Oconto Falls wrestling team?

A: Going to the Badger wrestling team camp (in 2019).

Q: What does wrestling mean to you?

A: Wrestling taught me what hard work and dedication truly was — the countless hours put in during (the season) and offseason.

Q: Favorite TV show?

A: TV show — “The Office.”

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I play guitar.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do when you are not in school or competing in a high school sport?

A: During the summer, I enjoy swimming. And in the winter, I enjoy snowboarding.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: Don’t worry about who or what the challenge is, go get it.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Brendan Konitzer

Sport: Wrestling

Weight class: 113

School: Oconto Falls High School

Year: Senior