Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Gavin Olinde (Wrestling)
Wrestling is a sport of endurance and stamina that Leominster High School senior Gavin Olinde believes will continue to benefit him beyond graduation.
“I love how mentally and physically tough wrestling is,” Olinde said. “You have to be both mentally tough and physically prepared to wrestle your best.”
Wrestling has been a part of Olinde’s life since fifth grade. Although the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to step away from the sport during middle school, he returned to the mat as a freshman and has remained committed ever since.
“My parents one day said I would love wrestling, and I signed up” Olinde said about his wrestling roots. “I’ve loved the sport ever since.”
Currently a member of the varsity squad, Olinde has earned his role through hard work and dedication, according to head coach Matt Schiller.
“Gavin is a hard-nosed, tough kid who will definitely be a good leader as he moves forward in life,” Schiller said. “He reminds me of me when I was his age. He has earned all the success he has received this year.”
Throughout his time in the program, Olinde has learned that success in wrestling extends beyond physical ability.
“Wrestling is more than just physical,” Olinde said about the lessons he has learned during his time on the LHS team. “You have to be mentally strong, and you need to want to win. You can be the strongest and the toughest, but if you don’t believe that you are, then you won’t be.”
After graduation, Olinde plans to enroll at the United States Naval Academy, where he hopes to continue wrestling with the Midshipmen. His long-term goal is to become a lawyer in the Marine Corps.
Outside of wrestling, Olinde enjoys baking, going to the gym, and staying active.
“My favorite class at LHS is Street and Practical Law 1,” Olinde said. “That class made me want to become a lawyer.”
Olinde also credits Ms. Romhanyi as his favorite teacher.
“She is fun to be around and is a kind and loving teacher,” Olinde said.
Gavin Olinde has turned his passion for wrestling into a foundation for discipline, leadership, and future success, carrying the lessons of the sport into every aspect of his life.