CrankMat Podcast EP. 7: Jackson Butler- University of Maryland Wrestling
In this episode, Ryan Hayes sits down with University of Maryland freshman wrestler Jackson Butler to talk about his journey from Georgia to Pennsylvania, his development at Bishop McCort, and the experiences that shaped him into the wrestler and person he is today.
Jackson shares how he first got into wrestling through jiu-jitsu, the decision to move his family across the country for better training, and what it was like competing in one of the toughest high school wrestling environments in the country. He opens up about the lessons he learned from tough losses, including losing a wrestle-off to longtime friend Sam Herring, and how overcoming confidence issues helped take his wrestling to another level.
The conversation also dives into Jackson's wild college recruitment journey. After committing to Cal Baptist, he suddenly found himself back on the recruiting market when the school discontinued its wrestling program. Jackson discusses the stress of that situation, how quickly Maryland stepped in, and why he ultimately knew Maryland was the right place for him.
Now preparing for his first season of Big Ten wrestling, Jackson talks about adjusting to college life, training with Maryland's talented room, balancing academics and athletics, his plans to pursue a career in real estate, and the importance of staying disciplined when no one is around to hold you accountable.
Jackson also talks about his faith, the influence of his parents and brother, the friendships he built at Bishop McCort, life away from the wrestling room, and what he hopes to accomplish at the next level.
A great conversation with a young wrestler whose journey is just beginning.
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