In the fiercely competitive world of Hawaii wrestling, three determined Crusader athletes are proving that size isn’t everything. Junior wrestlers Hunter Berger, Eli Suan, and Rome Garcia are stepping onto the mat with a mix of tenacity, resilience, and strategic prowess that separates them from their lightweight opponents. From overcoming injuries and the pressure of expectations to refining their techniques and mental fortitude, these wrestlers are not just competing; they are redefining what it means to be a champion in their own unique ways.
Hunter Berger is a returning two-time state and ILH champion who exemplifies resilience and leadership qualities. “Overcoming injuries taught me to be patient and strong, which has made me more focused this year,” shares Berger. “I stay focused by setting new goals and working hard in every practice.” His journey is marked by continuous improvements and a strong sense of team spirit, adding “My teammates are really important because we all push each other to be better.. As a leader, I feel I should set a good example and keep everyone motivated.” With his sights set on winning a third state title, Berger balances his ambitions with a commitment to his team’s success.
Eli Suan, a returning ILH champion and two-time state placer, has experienced the highs and lows of wrestling. “I felt the same pressure sophomore year, if not more. I had to win first, or I would let everyone down, shares Suan. “I ended up taking fourth. I’m glad I did because it finally woke me up. The only person I’m winning for is myself; I have nothing to prove to anyone.”
Suan reflects on his change in mindset. My biggest lesson I learned is to stop worrying about what other people think; the only person I need to impress is myself,” he adds. This realization has transformed his approach to the sport. “Your body will follow your mind; if you say you’re tired, your body will listen. If you tell yourself to push a little more, your body will listen. You have to have a mindset that is unbreakable.” As he aims for a state title, Suan’s journey underscores the importance of mental resilience and self-belief.
Rome Garcia made a strong entrance into varsity wrestling last year by becoming an ILH champion despite the setback of missing the weigh-in requirement at the state tournament. Garcia admits that “missing the weigh-in was devastating. It reminded me that even small details matter, and I learned the importance of being meticulous with preparation.”
This lesson has only fueled his determination. “I’ve adopted a growth mindset, where I see pressure as an opportunity to improve, and I remind myself that setbacks are just steps toward progress,” he explains. Garcia’s ability to bounce back and his commitment to balancing personal goals with team success highlights his potential to impact this season.
Hunter Berger, Eli Suan, and Rome Garcia are three powerful wrestlers in the lightweight category and three formidable forces in Hawaii High School wrestling. Their unique journeys, from Berger’s quest for a third state title, Suan’s lessons in mental resilience, and Garcia’s rise from a rookie mistake, illustrate the diverse paths to success in the sport.
Each wrestler’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to personal and collective excellence. As they step onto the mat this season, these Crusader athletes are poised to impact the world of Hawaii wrestling significantly, proving once again that size isn’t everything.
