It was the 23rd of February.

Pacing and preparing,

Developing excitement,

Trying to let go of the nerves.

It was my time to shine.

In front of thousands of people,

On the floor,

All eyes on me.

Building up confidence.

Wrestling the returning state champion,

Tough and mighty,

My opponent,

43-0 going into the match

was heavily favored,

I had no doubt

pounding through my mind.

I believed in my training.

I believed in my faith.

I believed I had what it took.

The job was simple,

Just win the match.

After all the hype and anticipation,

They called my name.

Stepping to the line,

All nerves faded.

It was all or nothing now,

The score was 1-1

40 seconds remain,

He used his length to his advantage-

Arms flailing,

As long as a Monday.

He got a takedown to seal the deal,

I ended up losing 3-2.

I couldn’t help but think

I let everyone down;

My family,

My friends,

My team,

My coaches,

My town,

I was defeated.

I made no one proud.

I still think to this day,

What could I have done?

Could I have worked harder?

Could I have done better?

I still believe

In my training,

In my God,

In my faith.

I have my eyes on the prize,

Even though have been defeated.

I may come out a failure,

Yet, I will still step to the line,

And give it my all.