Samuel Baker '21 Recruiting Profile

My name is Sam Baker and I am originally from Indiana where I was first introduced to wrestling in the 5th grade. I came to like the sport very quickly, and after my 7th grade year I moved to where I live now Blacksburg, Virginia. My final year of middle school wrestling I went undefeated during the normal season that really showed me that my hard work was beginning to paying off. Wrestling being one of the hardest sports out there shows you a lot about yourself. Wrestling has definitely done just that for me. One of the main things wrestling has taught me is facing adversity. This skill not only is good to have for wrestling purposes, but it is something I will always have now for the rest of my life when I get into a tough situation. One of my highlights from my wrestling career started from a tough situation, during the post season of my freshman year I had some bad shoulder problems and ended up not qualifying for states. I did a lot of physical therapy after that and worked out on and off the mat. For the rest of that year until next season came, pushing myself every workout. By the time the region tournament came I was ready. I ended up placing 4th in the region and qualifying for states, that showed that all the hard work I had been putting in over the last year was worth it.

 Moving to Blacksburg when I did was a very fortunate decision. Blacksburg High School hired a new coach and since then the program has just continued to grow and show progress. Since joining this program and coming back from my injuries, I have learned the value of sacrifice, commitment, how to be a good leader, and set a good example for the rest of my team. When it comes down to looking for a program I am open minded. I am looking for a school that not only challenges me athletically, but also academically. I do believe from what I have learned in wrestling I have what it takes to take my abilities to the next level. Not only from a talent perspective, but from a leadership, grit, and work-ethic view point I believe I have what it takes to make an impact on your team.