For Catoosa High School freshman Olivia Calvin, wrestling isn’t just a sport; it’s a test of heart, grit, and self-belief. As one of the younger athletes on the team, Olivia is already earning respect for her drive and determination both on and off the mat.
“I’m motivated by the feeling of stepping off the mat knowing I gave absolutely everything I had,” she said. “Wrestling is tough, it’s just you and your opponent, and that pressure pushes me to be my best every day.”
Olivia credits her biggest inspiration, Olympic gold medalist Helen Maroulis, for showing her what’s possible. “She’s proof that mental toughness is just as important as physical strength,” Olivia explained. “Watching her win made me believe I could achieve big things too.”
That belief is something Olivia carries into every practice, especially when she’s training with her partner, Luciana ‘Lucy’ Underwood. “She never lets me take an easy day,” Olivia said with a laugh. “We push each other to the limit, iron sharpens iron.”
Her journey hasn’t been easy, but one particular match stands out as a turning point. “It was the night I finally realized I belonged here,” she said. “I took every hit, got knocked down again and again, but I kept getting back up. When I saw the fear in their eyes, I knew I wasn’t just an underdog anymore. I was better than I ever thought I could be.”
Balancing sports and academics is another challenge Olivia embraces head-on. She credits organization and early planning as keys to staying on top of her schedule, especially during tournament season. “I plan my week every Sunday and get assignments done early,” she said.
Along with wrestling, Olivia proudly represents Catoosa on the flag football team, showing her versatility and school spirit. For her, wearing the Catoosa colors means more than competition; it’s about legacy.
“It’s an honor,” Olivia said. “Every time I step on the mat, I’m representing the girls who are coming up behind me and showing that we belong in this sport just as much as anyone else.”
