Chloe Black
Hinsdale
When did wrestling become your pursuit?
My sophomore year I had a friend who asked me to join wresting with her since I was not doing a winter sport. I enjoyed it a lot and met so many great people. It was such a good experience I decided to stick with, and now I love the sport.
How have you grown in the sport since then?
My sophomore year I actually was really bad — I think I only had one win. At some point something clicked and I stared to improve my skills. But it’s been a lot of work to do that.
What’s your goal for your senior campaign?
I really want to be able to qualify for state, so I’ve just been trying to work harder, beat more opponents, show up to practice and give it my all whenever I can.
How would your teammates describe you?
Energetic, peppy, motivated.
Do you have any pre-meet rituals?
I have to wear this pair of ICEE socks to every meet. I also listen to music, any type of rock music that can help get me a little bit angry before I step on the mat, songs that will get me amped up.
Has there been a high point this season?
Last month at the East Aurora tournament I went to double overtime in the championship match, and I definitely saw an improvement in how I was able to compete.
Do you feel like a Central girls wrestling pioneer?
As part of the first girls wrestling team here, I feel like I’ve definitely helped let people know that wresting is a girls sport, too, not just for guys.
Are you any other activities at Central?
I played flag football and am planning on doing track and field once wrestling is done.
How do you like to relax away from school?
I like to bake, especially red velvet cake and cookies.
Why does head coach Jason Hayes like having Black on the team?
She is the captain of the team, and she leads by her actions and works extremely hard. She is at every practice ready to learn and competes hard during her matches. She is a great leader both on and off the mat to the team. All the other girls look up to her on the team.
— profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
