For Michaela Hutchison, wrestling is a family affair.
Following in her older brother’s footsteps and leading by example for two younger sisters who are wrestling, Hutchison has been in the sport for 12 years.
Most of that time has been spent wrestling boys until becoming a member of the Oklahoma City University women’s wrestling team this season.
Hutchison, a freshman from Soldotna, Alaska, was named women’s outstanding wrestler in the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals this past weekend. She became the second OCU wrestler to be named such. She is this week’s Super Star of the Week.
“I was surprised to be named the outstanding wrestler,” Hutchison said. “I thought any of the girls on the team could have gotten it.”
Hutchison has been able to shine at 55 kilos and will be competing for the Stars at this weight at the WCWA National Championships on Jan. 31 in Marshall, Mo.
“We are looking forward to nationals,” Hutchison said. “We have all been training hard. As a freshman, I don’t feel any extra pressure because we are a team working toward a common goal. Everybody has their good days and their bad days, but we keep working together.”
Being a freshman on the team, Michaela is still adjusting to a new style of wrestling.
“I have always wrestled against boys so this is very different wrestling other girls,” said Hutchison. “The two styles are very different; girls are so much more flexible that it is something that I am getting used to.”
Hutchison has been focusing on her mental strength.
“I tend to think about it too much,” said Hutchison. “I know I can do it, but sometimes I overthink what I am trying to do. Every match is another opportunity for me to work on my mental toughness.”
OCU's wrestling team has high expectations for the season and plans on accomplishing them.
“We are all looking forward to nationals and claiming the national title for the team,” said Hutchison. “I would love a national title for the team, but my ultimate goal in wrestling is to make it to the Olympics. I have four years of hard training ahead of me, but I know I will make it there.”
More on Michaela:
Career plans: Become a doctor
Favorite team: OCU Wrestling
My worst fear: Failing
Greatest athlete of all time: Michael Jordan
Favorite video game: Duck Hunt
