Many student athletes train endlessly to prove themselves worthy to be captains their senior year. They give their season their all and work tirelessly during the off season. The reason for this is because the title as a team captain means you are respected, you have leadership, and proves that you stand out from your team. For Thomas Nguyen, he earned his title as wrestling captain as a sophomore with only a year of experience.
Thomas is not only named a captain, but he embodies it. Whether at practice or at a meet, he is constantly a leader. Fellow captain and Thomas’ drill partner Jason Nguyen tells us, “Whenever [Thomas] sees someone at practice slacking off during practice he always tells them to keep putting that work in and to reach for their goals.”
Thomas leads the team with his fellow captains, Juniors Chase Bailey and Jason Nguyen and another sophomore Michael Nigro. Michael is another underclassman that has had an incredible career so far. He placed 1st at D1 South Sectionals and competed at the D1 State Tournament.
Having younger captains has had a positive effect on the wrestling team, some say. A majority of Braintree wrestlers are underclassmen so it is easier for teammates to connect to Thomas as they are closer in age. “[Thomas] portrays the younger side of the team and makes sure everyone knows what they’re doing, and doing it the right way”, told Ryan Spahiu, a sophomore wrestler.
Thomas made it the farthest through the post season for the varsity team. He was a finalist at the D1 South Sectional tournament and then placed 5th at D1 states. He competed at Salem this past Friday for the All-States tournament. He had a tough bracket this post season but put in outstanding work. Not only is the turnout of his season this year a remarkable improvement to his previous season, but an incredible accomplishment.
When asked what makes him a strong wrestler, Thomas gave an answer that not only can be applied to wresting, but is advice that can be used throughout life, “Mentality definitely. Having good toughness and being ready to go and not getting deterred if you don’t get the first takedown or you don’t score first or you get put to your back, as long as you keep working, you’re going to be set for success for your entire career.”
