By Angela Brunk
Sophia Zwickl is a senior whose high school wrestling career reflects resilience, dedication, and leadership. Having wrestled since middle school, Zwickl has grown into a cornerstone of the Hutchinson wrestling program and a role model for younger athletes.
Entering her senior season, she was especially excited for the chance to compete at the state tournament, a goal she had been working toward since her freshman year. Unfortunately, Zwickl tore her ACL during a home dual on December 18, a setback that tested her strength both physically and mentally.
Throughout her career, Zwickl has been known for her work ethic. Outside of the wrestling season, her training included consistent weightlifting, attending open mat sessions, and traveling with her team to wrestling camps in Gunnison, Colorado.
This past season, however, her primary focus shifted to strengthening her mental game. She recognized that a non-quit mindset was essential in wrestling and leaned heavily on visualization techniques, mentally rehearsing tough match situations to build confidence and handle pressure.
Zwickl’s impact goes far beyond wins and losses. She holds the team record for most career pins with 26, earned four varsity letters, and served as a two-time team captain. Her records include a 24–7 season last year, a 20–12 record in 2023–24, and 17–14 in 2022–23. She has also been recognized academically with a KSHSAA academic certificate and received the Girls’ Most Committed Award for the Hutchinson High wrestling team.
Outside of wrestling, Zwickl is deeply involved in bodybuilding, earning first place in a teen women’s physique division and third in the women’s open division. Looking ahead, she plans to work full-time before attending Hutchinson Community College and hopes to stay connected to wrestling, helping the girls’ program continue to grow.
