Alexander Baran '19 Recruiting Profile

For years, wresting has been my life; it’s my passion and there is no better feeling than being out on the mat. My ultimate goal is to be the best I could be in wrestling as well as academics. I’m always pushing myself more and more each day to be the best I can be. In middle school, I was named the team captain, finishing with a 32-4 record. On top of this, I won three division titles and placed second in the tri county championship. My freshman year I wrestled at 120 pounds and finished with a 18-12 record. I knew transitioning from middle school to high school wouldn’t be easy, but I was dedicated as well as motivated. A little discouraged at a slow start to my high school career, I knew I had to make a change. The following summer, on top of going to Shore Thing, I spent a month at the JROB intensive camp, where I pushed myself harder than I ever had before.

With my sophomore year coming up, it was time to determine what weight class I was going to wrestle. I looked at where I would have the most competition and instead of running away, I embraced it and decided to wrestle at 132 pounds. For me, it wasn’t about taking the easy way out; it was about proving something to myself. At the start of the season I embraced the challenge and told myself I would make it to states. I ended with a 34-9 record, placed second in districts, third in regions, but unfortunately came up short in states. Failure discourages many people, but I use that to push me to be the best I can be. I’m motivated more now than ever to be on the winners podium in states next year. I am continuing to wrestle at Shore Thing during my off-season as well as going back to the intensive JROB camp this summer.

Furthermore, to enhance my skills, I have recently begun to do freestyle wrestling. Shortly after my training and learning the different moves and rules, I entered two USA state qualifiers and placed second and third. I also placed tenth in the NE Region tournament that was held in Pennsylvania.

Scholastically, I’m always striving for academic achievement and practicing academic integrity. Although my grade point average isn’t where I’d like it to be at the moment, ( currently a 3.5 GPA ) I am putting as much effort into my academics as I am putting out on the mat day in and day out. With my determination and work ethic I will make my dream a reality.

i am currently ranked 1st in the Shore Conference and 6th in the state of N.J. for 138 lbs.