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Sports

Mark Kvach Successful in Wrestling Return

Avon sophomore scores key win against Rocky River

wrestler Mark Kvach's return to the wrestling mats for the first time since the fifth grade is a feel-good story that has Eagles fans cheering.

 Fresh off a hand injury he got during football season, he has come back to compete at the level that has helped the Eagles make a strong start this season. When  Kvach, just a sophomore earned a pin over rival Rocky River during a on Thursday night the Eagles nest went crazy.
Avon coach Mark Porter said, "Not only is (Kvach) a good athlete, but a great person. People look up to him, and all those in the stands who were cheering was a testament to that."
 
Avon Patch caught up with the sophomore to talk about his win, and also some of his favorite things.
 
Avon Patch: First off, why after a long extended football season, where you endured an injury did you decide after a long hiatus to wrestle again?
Kvach: Its great conditioning for football, and you get a chance to kick some butt and have some fun. I'm really into (Ultimate Fighting Championship) stuff and looking to get into something like that down the road. You need to have a strong wrestling background because most of the fighting that goes on happens on the ground. But its also fun for me.
 
Avon Patch: Is it true you had no idea when you got your injury and played through pain?
Kvach:  Yes. I guess I had it for about two months during football season. I really didn't know.
 
Avon Patch: You've wrestled just three matches since deciding to come out for the team. Talk about the experience of winning for the first time, and doing it at home.
Kvach:  It was very nerve-wracking, especially after coming out late, and getting pinned at the Cleveland State tournament twice. This just boosted me up, and made me feel more confident.
 
Avon Patch: What is your favorite thing to watch on TV?
Kvach: ESPN
 
Avon Patch: What is your favorite restaurant?
Kvach: Definitely . I can handle two of the double bacon cheeseburgers with some condiments on it, unless I get a large fries. The its just one and a large drink.
 
Avon Patch: Well since you like to eat, whats the worst thing about wrestling?
Kvach: ( With a laugh) When I was getting certified for my weight, I had to starve myself for around two days and I lost ten pounds. So when you are out with your buddies and they are all getting food, I cant have any! That was horrible!
 
Avon Patch: Being a two sport man, what is your favorite thing about Avon athletics?
Kvach: Just the coaching we have and the respect we get from the community, teachers, friends and the school. This is a great community to live in.
 
Avon Patch: If there is one moment that is your top memory, what would that be.
Kvach: Without a doubt, it would be starting on varsity my freshman year. But going to the playoffs last year and finishing the regular season 10-0 is also one of my favorites.
 
Avon Patch:  Who has been the one person most instrumental in your development as a wrestler?
Kvach: I would have to say Kyle Henderson. He is a history teacher at the middle school, and he not only prepared me for high school, but he has been helping me out all year since he is also a wrestling coach. He has been a good role model for me.
 
Avon Patch: What is your favorite movie?
Kvach: Friday Night Lights.
 
Avon Patch: How about goals for the remainder of this season?
Kvach: My goal is to win out, to work hard, stay humble about it and learn for next year.
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