Northwest Herald Athlete of the Week: Richmond-Burton’s Emmett Nelson

Richmond-Burton wrestler Emmett Nelson has had a memorable two weeks.

Nelson, a freshman, defeated Marian Central’s Kaden Harman, 3-1, for the 113-pound championship of the Class 1A Harvard Boys Wrestling Regional on Feb. 5. At the time, Harman was ranked No. 2 and Nelson No. 8 by the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association.

On Saturday, Nelson was one of two Rockets, along with senior Brock Wood, to capture a title at the Princeton Sectional, again beating Harman by a 3-1 score in the championship match. Nelson now will compete in his first state tournament, which begins Thursday at the University of Illinois’ State Farm Center in Champaign.

Nelson will be joined at state by Wood and teammate Clay Madula, who qualified at 106 pounds.

Nelson was voted Northwest Herald Athlete of the Week by readers and answered some questions about his postseason success, having a dad as a high school coach, his favorite food after a difficult weight cut and more.

What match did you feel like you were wrestling your best this season?

Nelson: I think my match with Harman from Marian Central was a great match on my part. It was low scoring, but I feel I wrestled a smart match.

Who has had the biggest effect on your wrestling career?

Nelson: My dad [R-B coach Tony Nelson] has had a very large impact on me as a person and a wrestler, helping me improve and learn. Also my coaches Ryan Prater and Jordan Blanton have been great role models for me.

What is something most people don’t know about wrestling?

Nelson: One thing I think most people don’t know about wrestling is all the work it takes outside the room and during the offseason.

What is it like having your dad as your coach?

Nelson: I feel very fortunate to have my dad as a coach. It can be a little frustrating at times, but I get to learn a lot, as well.

If you could hang out with any athlete, who would it be?

Nelson: If I could hang out with any athlete, it would be [American wrestler] Jordan Burroughs because I would like to get to know his mindset and work ethic.

Do you have favorite pre- or post-match meals?

Nelson: My favorite post-match meal is definitely a big steak. There’s nothing better than a steak after a tough weight cut.

What’s your favorite thing about your sport?

Nelson: My favorite part about the sport is the reward you get for your work. For example, in any team sport you could be the hardest worker and still lose because of your teammates. In wrestling, your work turns into your success.