Johnson's Will to Win Powers Dakota on the Mat

“Jake Johnson’s potential is scary.” 

That’s according to his wrestling coach Bill Witgen.

“He’s not the most technical wrestler, but he wills himself to win,” Witgen said. “That’s not something you teach. He’s only a freshman but he has great confidence and is not intimidated.”

The Dakota freshman has made a smooth transition from kids’ club to high school wrestling and has already won the county meet in his first year with the varsity team. Johnson competes in the 125 weight class.

“Jake is really enjoying just being one of the guys,” Witgen said. “He’s wrestled in kids’ clubs and has always done well as the leader of his teams. At Dakota, it’s different for him because there are new kids and it’s a tougher stage at a higher level. He doesn’t have the pressure of having to carry the team.”

Johnson seems to be handling the change and challenge quite well.

“He’s having fun,” Witgen said. “Even though he is a quiet kid, he smiles and laughs a lot. He is a hard worker and is ahead of his years by far.”

Take Five with Jake Johnson

1. What's the newest song on your iPod?
   I add like 30 at a time so I’ll have to think … warm-up music (for before my matches) like Linkin Park and some other good stuff. I don’t really know the titles or the names, I just like songs that get my blood flowing.
2. Who is your favorite teacher at Dakota and why?
   My favorite teacher is Mr. Schneider, the gym teacher, because in gym I don’t have to sit at a desk all hours.
3. What are your hobbies outside of wrestling?
   I like computers mainly. I hope to go into the field someday.
4. Who is your favorite athlete?
   My favorite is Olympic wrestler Dan Gable.
5. How do you prepare for a match?
   OK, a question I can finally answer! To prepare for a match, I like to pace back and forth, listen to my warm-up music and try to get my head where it needs to be. It should be on my match and nothing else.