The Hereford wrestling program has long prided itself on hard work and conditioning.
An ideal example is the Bulls' senior 140-pound wrestler Jonny Volz. After going 26-15 as a junior, qualifying for states but unable to place, Volz put in extra time during the offseason in a bid to make the most of his senior season.
So far, so good. A team captain, Volz is 15-0 with 10 pins in helping lead the No. 10 Bulls to a 14-1 record.
Volz also plays baseball and is involved in Future Business Leaders of America.
He would like to continue wrestling in college and is considering Gettysburg with plans to major in physical therapy.
Volz has a twin brother, Jimmy, who also wrestles and plays baseball at Hereford.
Question: How does it feel to be undefeated so far this season?
Answer: When I went 2-0 after our first match of the season, I was like, "Well, I'd better enjoy it while it lasts." It's kind of a big shock to me being undefeated, and I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts. I think I'm just more confident this season, and things are going very well.
Q: What has been the key to the winning tradition at Hereford?
A: We know we can't win on just talent alone, so we match it with conditioning. That's always been our key - win every match with conditioning and outworking opponents.
Q: What are some of your responsibilities as captain?
A: There are a lot of responsibilities. The coaches can only push the team so far, and the rest has to come with the captains pushing teammates. It's important to show that what you make them do, you have to do yourself. We all have to go through it together.
Q: What is it about wrestling?
A: I like the fact that I myself control the outcome. It's all about how I can do it, and I don't have to rely on other people when I'm on the mat.
Q: What goals do you have set for the season?
A: I want to place at states. I went to states last year and lost my first two matches pretty badly. I think going into it this year, it will be easier because I won't be as nervous and I'll know what to expect. It was pretty intimidating last year with all the people there - I got a little freaked out.
Q: What kind of dedication is needed to be a successful wrestler?
A: It takes a lot of dedication. It's basically Coach [Ron] Causey and Coach [Brett] Baier on you from October to March. It's every day - three hours a day, if not more - so it's something you have to give a lot of your life to during that time. It's awesome, and I love it.