ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Ryan Leverenz

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Lakewood Ranch junior Ryan Leverenz captured his first individual county championship in the 125-pound weight class at the Manatee County Championships Jan. 26 at Southeast. The 17-year-old also went undefeated at the Palm Harbor Duals Jan. 22. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was your reaction when you won the individual county championship?
I was excited. A county championship is a nice thing to have, but it doesn’t mean anything after today. We’re in the postseason now, so all that matters is what I do in districts, regionals and states.

How did you get into wrestling?
My dad did it when he was younger. So my freshman year, I decided to go and try out.

What’s the toughest part about maintaining your weight?
Watching what you eat.

What do you enjoy the most about wrestling?
I like that it’s not so much a team sport as an individual sport. You have no one else to rely on. It’s all up to you.

Do you play any other sports?
Baseball.

Of the two sports you play, which is your favorite?
Wrestling. It’s more physical.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two brothers: Brendan, 18 and Cody, 14.

Who is your biggest role model?
Dan Gable. He was the best wrestler there ever was. He was an Olympic champion.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a Navy Seal.

What was your favorite cartoon show when you were little?
Bugs Bunny.

What’s your favorite subject?
Physical education. I like to play sports.

Do you have any pets?
Yes. I have six dogs — a beagle, a blue nose pit bull, a Labrador and chow mix and three Boston terriers.

What’s your favorite food?
Steak