USAW

Q&A With Olympian Heath Sims

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by Andre Gibson

Heath Sims Age 29 College: Cerritos Junior College Started wrestling at age 14What's your goal going into the Olympics? Like all other Olympic athletes, my goal is to win a Gold Medal. What international experience do you have that has prepared you for this event? I have competed in 4 world championships at different age levels and many other international competitions. I have been to Russia eighteen times to compete and train as well as all over Europe. How are preparations going for the Olympics? Are you doing anything different? Does this meet have a different feel to it? My preparation for the Olympics has increased some but I am doing a similar training schedule that has been successful for me in the past. This event has a very different feel. The pressure on the athletes is greater from the media, friends, and family. I am using the great amount of excitement and anticipation to motivate me in my training. The preparation still comes months before you step on the mat. If I train hard and prepare to the best of my ability, then when the time comes to compete, I am confident. How was your trip/tournament to Poddoubny? What did you learn from it? My trip to Poddoubny, Russia was great. I had a chance to see my competitors in tough competition as well as learn their weaknesses. Who has been the biggest influence on you during your wrestling career? Why? Since I was 14 years old, Bob Anderson has been my coach. He introduced me to international competition, nutrition, and weight training. All of these are vital roles in my wrestling. He has helped me realize my potential of becoming an Olympian and stuck with me through the years to make it happen. My family, friends, and hometown community have offered great support. Every major newspaper has written an article. I have old high school buddies and acquaintances that have contacted me to wish me luck and say congratulations. What do you think of the coaching staff assembled for the Olympics? The coaching staff here for the Olympics is very experienced and confident in their coaching. They will definitely bring this team up to its full potential. What has wrestling taught you? How do you view the sport? Wrestling has taught me one thing more than any other has. Patience. This is not a sport where one can excel overnight. It requires trial and error and learning to overcome ones flaws. You have to be man enough to admit them so you can take the next step on improving your self.