Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Ernst Attilus

Ernst Attilus, a senior wrestler for Ocoee High, was the only Knight to win first place at the Metro West Conference Meet Feb. 8 at Apopka High, while two of his teammates (Hermi Gomez and Derek Verhoest) placed as  runners-up. Attilus, who placed second a year ago, defeated Nicholas Carrasquillo, of Evans High, in the championship match.

What was it like to place first at Metros for the first time?

It felt pretty good. It’s just another step toward reaching my goal. It’s good progress — you see the mistakes you did when you were younger.

At what areas have you worked the hardest?

My footwork and on the ground.

What is the best advice you have received from your coach, Mike Shultz?

To just keep moving.

What is your goal the rest of the season?

My goal is to place in states. Last year, I made it to regionals and got knocked out on the first day.

What do you like most about wrestling?

I enjoy the process.

What is your favorite part of the training you do for wrestling?

The sprints and the fact that you have to give it 100% every time.

What is your least favorite part of the training?

The long runs — I hate the long runs.

Do you have any wrestlers you look up to?

Alex Dieringer — I like to copy some of his moves a lot. I like to watch Jordan Burroughs.

What’s your favorite school subject?

I’d say history, because it’s kind of interesting and it’s easier to get an understanding of it because everything is online.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned about this year in school?

I had economics this year, and I learned how the banks actually work.

What are your plans for after high school?

I’m hoping to go to college and get a degree in business. After college, I want to be a real-estate agent. I like the fact that you’re your own boss and there’s open availability.

What’s the last movie you saw in theaters and how was it?

I was watching “Finding Dory.” It was a good movie.