Class of 2020
Newton, Iowa
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central because I really enjoyed my overnight and felt an immediate connection with the guys on the wrestling team. It was also the right distance from home and great opportunities for internships right here in Pella.
Favorite professor and why?
That’s a hard choice, because I really haven’t disliked any professors, but I’d probably have to go with Franks. He’s super relaxed but also knows a ton about Computer Science, probably because he’s been doing it almost as long as Apple’s been around.
You’re majoring in computer science and accounting because?
I enjoy the problem solving aspect of computer science a lot, and the flexibility because there’s rarely just one way to attack a problem. I chose Accounting because in business everything comes back to the bottom line, so understanding how financials work is very important.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Class and Netflix
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I don’t exactly have any go to artists as much as go to genres, depending on the situation. For example, if I’m warming up for a match I’m definitely going to be listening to something more like heavy metal or rap, but if I’m chilling at a bonfire during the summer it’s probably gonna be closer to country or something.
Favorite restaurant in Pella?
I definitely spend the most time at Applebee’s because I’m cheap and half price apps and $1 drinks are a great deal, but I probably prefer Sports Page because the food’s better.
Most embarrassing moment?
Luckily I’ve escaped major embarrassment so far, but I definitely walked around campus one day with the sticker still on a new pair of jeans, and there have been multiple times I’ve just been chilling in class with some sauce on my face from lunch.
Favorite sport besides wrestling?
I honestly enjoy most sports, but soccer is really fun to play if you have good on field chemistry with your teammates, and baseball is a blast if you’re playing with your buddies. If I had to watch a sport on TV though it would be football or hockey.
Teammate who would do the best on American Ninja Warrior?
In years past I would’ve said either of the Vesters because they both got upper 40’s in our pullup challenge, but this year it’d be much closer. I’ll go with Fritz cause he’s got the length and great body control.
What words of wisdom would you pass on to your childhood self?
NEVER try to out pizza the Hut.
Favorite TV Show
My favorite TV is usually whichever show I happen to be watching at that moment; right now I’m watching Rick and Morty, BoJack Horseman, and Letterkenny. BoJack’s a bit heavier than the other two but they’re all quite funny.
What’s it like to wrestle for Coach Van Kley?
I love wrestling for Van Kley, and it’s been a great experience. However, nobody warned me about how incredibly quotable the experience is. After 4 years I’m fairly certain I could write a book of VK quotes. “Trust the System”, “If I had a garden hose”, and “Deebedee” are some classics. I also would like to have been warned that there’s a direct correlation between how tired he is and how hard practice is gonna be. If he brings coffee to practice, we’re in trouble.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central wrestling?
The relationships I’ve built. Nothing bonds like grueling 2 hour practices and crazy workouts (Fun Run, anyone?). We talk about being a family to the point where it might sound cliché, but it’s one of the things I’m going to miss the most when I’m done.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
I hope to be waking up excited to go to work. One of my biggest fears (besides large bodies of water) is just absolutely hating my job.
Favorite food from Central Market
It’s not a food so much as the day. I love the Mardi Gras lunch we have every year. Everyone gets beads, there are great decorations, and I really like Cajun food.
Bucket list
Beat the record and go around the world in 79 days
Try In-and-Out solely to avoid people from Arizona insisting that I try In-and-Out
Meet the Florida Man
Give a little salami to a cat
Yes
