The off-season is crucial for athletes to rejuvenate and strategize for the future. Each athlete has a unique approach to making the most of this time. During the offseason, athletes need to care for their mental and physical state while also trying to improve.
At MHS, some students have perfected their offseason routine, which allows them to excel during the season in their respective sports. We interviewed three athletes from different winter sports to see what they do in the off-season.
Andy Franke ‘26
After qualifying for state last season but falling short in the tournament, Andy is ready to return to Wells Fargo Arena this winter.
“Two specific goals I have for this season are to be a state champion and break the school tech fall record.”
His off-season consisted of more wrestling, except in a different style. It is Olympic-style wrestling, which is freestyle and Greco.
“It’s pretty different from normal high school style but prepares me by implementing new techniques and methods, and also lets me see tough competition nationally.”
Like many other passionate athletes, Andy says his motivation comes from his desire to compete and constantly improve.
Elsie Lewis ‘25
Muscatine had another state wrestling qualifier last year, but this time, it was for our girls’ wrestling team. Now that she can compete at the highest level in the state, Elsie looks to perform even better this season.
“My goal for this season is to qualify for state again and place at least third at the state tournament as my preseason ranking is third in the state.”
It would be an understatement to say that our community loves girls wrestling just as much as any sport. Elsie noticed the overwhelming support after qualifying for state.
“It was extremely tough to qualify and it took a long season of hard work and determination.”
Elsie said, “I’m not going to lie, I was very scared in my first match as I had never wrestled in front of a sold-out crowd before. I had to learn to block out the outside noise and focus on my opponent.”
She is looking forward to going against more competition this season and hopefully becoming the first girl at Muscatine to get 100 wins.
Nate Lukkarinen ‘26
In recent years, the Muskies boys basketball team has not played to the level they believe they could. Nate hopes to change that this year.
“Every member of our team shares a common goal of winning games.” Nate said, “I have the utmost confidence in our ability to do so if we play the right way.”
The offseason is all about getting better at your game, whether it’s through drills or different basketball leagues. Nate shared his recipe for success during the offseason.
“I focus specifically on areas where I struggled during the season prior, as well as improving prior skills and maintaining my endurance.”
Although basketball is important, after the season ends, Nate makes sure to continue to focus on his academics while also participating in other high school sports, such as cross country.
The MHS Auroran wishes these athletes the best as their seasons start!
