East County Athlete of the Week: Shawn Maestre

Shawn Maestre, a junior at Lakewood Ranch, only started wrestling competitively last season, but has already made an impression on Head Coach Pat Ancil. Maestre finished 15th in the state in the 165-pound weight class last season. In the Mustangs' season opening tournament at Mulberry High on Dec. 7, Maestre finished 3-0, pinning all three of his opponents. 

When did you start wrestling and why?

I started wrestling in middle school, around sixth or seventh grade, but I didn’t start wrestling competitively until the beginning of 2024. I started wrestling competitively in high school just to stay in condition for football — I played middle linebacker — but I found out how naturally the sport came to me. I realized that I’m a talented wrestler and football wasn’t really working out, so I decided to just make wrestling my main sport.

What’s the appeal?

I like how competitive it is and how it doesn’t always depend on the team. Instead your success is based on how you perform and how much time you put into it.

What's your best skill on the mat?

I’d say defending, so hand fighting, sprawling, circling behind and escaping. When I’m attacking, my favorite shot is the head throw.

What’s your favorite wrestling memory?

I used to wrestle with my friend Trey Schwartz. He’s probably the best wrestler I’ve ever wrestled. He gave me some super competitive matches and helped get me to where I am today.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I’m looking forward to hopefully making it to the state tournament. I want to be No. 1 or at least the best wrestler that I can be.

What’s your favorite food?

I love pizza. Jet’s is probably my favorite. Jerk chicken’s pretty good too.

What’s your favorite movie or television show?

One of my favorite movies is “Ready Player One." I like anime, so I’d have to go with something along the lines of “Naruto” for TV.

What’s your favorite school subject?

I like health class. I enjoy learning about CPR and first aid, seems like the kind of thing that’s good to have in my back pocket.

What are your hobbies?

I love playing video games and watching anime. I like to play "Elden Ring," "Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero," and the "Cyberpunk" series.

What's the best advice that you've received?

To never give up when you’re in a tight situation. Just because you might’ve lost a match, it doesn’t mean that you’re worse than your opponent. You can always get better, but there will always be someone better than you as well.

Finish this sentence. Shawn Maestre is…

A tough wrestler.