7 Minutes on the Mat with Anthony Robles
Nov 4th, 2009 | By viratas | Category: Arizona State, Open Mat Originals
Last year Arizona States Anthony Robles racked up the awards and Accolades. He was named the PAC-10 wrestler of the Year, a PAC-10 Champion, and an NCAA All-American placing 4th at 125 pounds. Robles plans on exceeding last years success and has his sites set on an NCAA Championship. TOM spends 7 minutes on the mat with Mr. Robles.
TOM: What are you most looking forward to this upcoming season?
AR: My most memorable match was when I became an NCAA All-American last year. It was an awesome feeling that I experienced when I reached my goal and tons of people were clapping for me.
TOM: How have you improved from last season to this one? What helped that improvement?
AR: I went over tapes from nationals and I learned a ton from the close matches that I lost. I have been able to work on a few areas of weakness in my game and I am excited to see what happens this year.
TOM: MMA good or bad for wrestling and why?
AR: I think it’s good for wrestling because unlike other sports, wrestling does not have a paid pro league. MMA gives us a chance to take our skills and excel in an up and coming sport. Some of the best MMA fighters are former wrestlers.
TOM: Have you considered a MMA career after you are done competing?
AR: I am absolutely considering a career in MMA I hear that a 125 weight class is under works.
TOM: What advice would you give to an up and coming wrestler?
AR: I would just say to keep your head up and work hard. Nobody starts off on the top of the podium and sometimes you get knocked down. The most important thin is to give it your all and don’t let anybody stand in your way.
TOM: As a recruit what were the main things you considered when picking a school?
AR: The first thing I considered was if the school would give me a good education then I focused on if I could see myself being happy there whether I wrestled or not and also If I could be a national champion there.
TOM: What person has had the biggest impact on your wrestling career and why?
AR: My high school coach Bob Williams had a huge impact on me. He taught me a ton of things including the tilts I use and he came up with my down stance. I use everything he taught me to this day. I actually still go back to him now for advice on wrestling and even life situations.
By TOM Staff
