Orange and Black is an iconic event that takes place at Arcata High annually with members of the wrestling team competing against each other for a spot on the varsity roster. When asked why Orange and Black is significant to the program, members had different responses.
“I think it is to bring attention to the sport because no one really cares who has a varsity spot, people just want to see some wrestling,” junior Silven Yoder said.
It seems to be a pretty big deal among the new wrestlers because of the adrenaline it evokes. These matches are a big deal considering they are the openers to the season. It was speculated that being able to beat teammates out of their spot could cause animosity between them.
“There is definitely more rivalry than beef if anything,” junior River Mattole said.
However, the team of wrestlers, boys and girls, seem to be a very close-knit group. They all mentioned how supporting each other during the season is vital.
“It is a big focus on the team to be supportive because we know that the environment is really competitive and stressful,” senior Piper Bjorkstedt said. “It is a fine line and a balance to support but also push each other. I think we’ve succeeded in finding that balance.” That’s what sports is all about.
Many wrestlers have experienced Orange and Black for years now and don’t feel many nerves going into it.
“I think it does because if you’re a first year wrestler, like I was last year, I was nervous. When I went to tournaments, I wasn’t nervous because I’ve already been through it,” junior Silven Yoder said. “It eases you into it with your own school and teammates.”
Having people that you train with and are comfortable performing around is something fundamentally necessary for wrestlers. Some may think it is an individual sport, but the wrestlers have a different opinion. When asked if they feel the sport is team or individually-based, everyone said team-based. It seemed hard to believe because it is such an individual performance, but the preparation behind those performances comes from a collaborative source.
“You cannot learn to wrestle on your own,” senior Piper Bjorkstedt said. “If you don’t have a training partner who is going to show up the same way that you do, match your energy, and push you as you push them, you’re not going anywhere.”
