Faith and Grit: Eva Hermansson's Wrestling Journey

Eva Hermansson, a senior at Woodstock North, is a standout wrestler with a remarkable record. Her journey began as a sophomore when she decided to try wrestling after attending a summer camp. Initially, she was drawn to the sport for the conditioning it offered for soccer, but she quickly found her passion in wrestling. Hermansson's discipline and dedication have paid off, with a 20-1 record this season and first-place finishes at major invitational tournaments. Hermansson's success is not just about her athletic prowess but also her strong faith. She starts her day at 3:45 a. m. with a workout and prayer, setting a clear and focused mindset. Her faith is a cornerstone of her life and wrestling career, guiding her through tough times and victories alike. Hermansson's coach, Eric Hunt, has noticed her devotion, mentioning how she invited him and his family to church and how she uses her faith to prepare for matches.Her journey hasn't been easy. During her sophomore year, Hermansson suffered a severe knee injury just before a crucial tournament, sidelining her for five months. Instead of giving up, she pushed through the pain and trusted in her recovery. The following year, she made it to the sectional tournament but fell short of qualifying for the state championship. These setbacks only strengthened her resolve and deepened her faith. Hermansson's inspirations include her older brother, Erik, who joined the U. S. Army. His decision to serve inspired her to take on challenging endeavors, including wrestling and planning to join the U. S. Air Force after high school. Beyond wrestling, Hermansson is actively involved in her community, participating in the Spanish National Honor Society and the Best Buddies program, which supports students with special needs. This season, Hermansson has focused on improving her offensive skills, becoming more aggressive on the mat. Her goal is to advance to the state tournament and reach the 100-win mark in her career. Hermansson's journey is a testament to her faith, discipline, and determination, showing that success comes from hard work and a strong belief in oneself.