Walking towards the center of the mat all I can do is gaze blindly into the crowd of at least 1000 people; just asking myself how I got here in the first place. I am competing in the finals match at the 103-pound weight class for one of the largest tournaments on the east coast. There are 55 teams from all over New England and even teams from the South.
It has been the toughest six minutes of my life, and am completely amazed I have lasted thus far. I managed to tie the match with John Daneau, the number one seed from Haverhill, MA. As a second year wrestler, it seems impossible to me. Chills roll down my back as I once again make my way to meet my opponent. I am surrounded by hundreds of cheering fans, excited wrestlers, and screaming coaches. An odd feeling comes over me as reality sinks in, overtime. I am going to have to disregard the last six minutes of the match, and use whatever energy I have left. .
The first take down wins it. I grasp the fact that this is my opportunity for greatness. If I plan to win this match, this tournament, I must overcome the moment before the moment overcomes me. I close my eyes and visualize first place, the glory, and the title. I look into my challenger's eyes and see the look of exhaustion and weakness. I now know that I will not accept failure. We shake hands and the whistle blows. .
Without hesitation, I attempt to take him down. Out of instinct I shoot a double leg take down and fight for my life. We push and pull against each other, but roll out of bounds. For what seems to be the longest 45 seconds of my life, Daneau and I remain in neutral standing. I glance at the clock, and there are only 15 seconds left in the overtime period. I again shoot a double leg take down and again we roll out of bounds. As I am walking towards the center of the mat, a quick glimpse at the clock shows that only six seconds remain. At this point, I decide that the match is over.