Sophomore Tre’Viante Thomas, linemen and wrestler, is this week’s Athlete of the Week. He has been wrestling for two years and playing football since kindergarten. During his freshman year, Erich Singer, the athletic director, convinced him to join the wrestling team.

“Tre’ is only a second-year wrestler and has really devoted himself to everything he does,” said Singer. “He has found a good home on the wrestling team. He is reliable and determined; great with academics and always stays motivated.”

Below is a Q&A with Thomas.

Q: What has been your most memorable experience this season? Why?

A: Our home duals because it was my first official varsity dual and I won all my matches.

Q: Is it hard to maintain your physique for wrestling?

A: For me, yes. Making weight is hard because you have to stay underweight by eating less or eating right.

Q: How do you deal with losses?

A: I use losing to push me harder and fuel myself to work hard at practice.

Q: How do you manage sports and your academics?

A: I stay up late lots of nights usually till midnight and wake up at five to finish everything else. I also utilize Trojan Time.

Q: What has been your biggest challenge this year?

A: The weight difference has been my biggest challenge. I had to wrestle at 220 which is 20 to 35 pounds heavier than I’m used to.

Q: Is there anyone who motivates you?

A: I look up to Vince. He placed sixth in the state and really pushed me when I wrestled him.