CrankMat Podcast EP. 9: Nico DeSalvo- Southeast Polk High School Iowa
Ryan Hayes sits down with three-time Iowa state champion and Southeast Polk standout Nico DeSalvo for an in-depth conversation about his wrestling journey, his move to Arizona State, and what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Nico reflects on his journey from Louisiana to Pennsylvania and eventually Iowa, the coaches and training partners who helped shape his career, and his eighth-place finish at Fargo despite competing with a broken wrist. He also discusses his transition to Mission Wrestling Club, his training regimen, his upcoming Super 32 appearance, and his goals for his senior season and beyond.
Beyond wrestling, Nico opens up about his faith, overcoming injuries and difficult times, and learning that his identity and worth extend far beyond the sport. He shares his hopes of becoming a college coach or opening his own wrestling club one day, along with his mindset on competition, confidence, patience, and trusting God's plan.
Topics covered:
* Three-time Iowa state champion at Southeast Polk
* His journey from Louisiana to Pennsylvania to Iowa
* Committing to Arizona State and his future in college wrestling
* Fargo All-American performance and battling through injury
* Hand fighting, development, and preparing for Super 32
* Training, recovery, and avoiding overtraining
* Wrestling culture, rankings, and seeking out tough competition
* Faith, mental toughness, and finding your identity beyond wrestling
* Future goals in coaching and growing the sport
Nico's message is simple: Be patient, trust the process, and focus on getting one percent better every day.
Watch the full conversation and get to know one of the nation's top high school wrestlers beyond the mat.
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