ATHLETE OF THE WEEK - West Orange Times & Observer: George Schanck

Ocoee High wrestler became first athlete in program history to compete at state meet twice.


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  • | 3:06 p.m. March 10, 2016
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George Schanck is a two-sport standout for the Ocoee Knights. This past weekend he became the first wrestler from the school to have competed twice in the state tournament. After winning the district championship at 182 pounds and finishing second in the region (another first for the program), Schanck went 1-2 over the weekend at the state wrestling meet. Schanck, who plays defensive end on the football field, is a junior and will look to make it three consecutive state appearances next spring.

 

How did it feel to compete in the state tournament for a second consecutive year?

I was happy to make state again, and I feel like I could go again next year. For me to make it, and to be the only person (from Ocoee High) to wrestle in the state tournament twice, I feel like that’s an accomplishment.

 

What’s your favorite varsity sports memory so far?

I think it was probably the Lake Minneola game during football season (Oct. 28, 33-28 victory). It was just a fun game — we just balled out.

 

What are some of the differences you’ve noticed between playing football and wrestling at Ocoee?

In football, you can be doing your best and still come out losing. In wrestling, it’s all up to you. You win or lose because you tried hard enough or you didn’t try hard enough. Football is a team sport. You get to be with your boys and do your thing and win games together.

 

Ocoee’s wrestling program seems to be improving. What’s your outlook for next year?

All the freshmen we have — we had a lot of freshmen this year — so I think that next year, since they wrestled so tough, we’re going to have a lot of state placers and state qualifiers. I think we’re going to be a lot better.

 

What’s your least favorite chore around the house?

Washing dishes. I just don’t like washing dishes. It’s a lot to do.

 

What’s the best advice you’ve received?

Coach (Mike) Shultz told me to take things one match at a time. It helped me a lot. … I’ve always got another match ahead of me.

 

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Superman. He flies, and he’s strong — he pick up cars and stuff. I’m excited to see “Batman v. Superman.”

 

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