Athlete of the Week: Trevor Barnes

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.

After tearing his MCL in the PAL Bowl Jan. 8, Trevor Barnes made a vow to return to the mat in time for the district championships. On Feb. 6, the Braden River senior held true to his word, finishing second in the 215-pound weight class and earning a spot in Saturday’s regional championship. Barnes was leading 4-2 in the district championship match but had to disqualify himself because of his injury, officially ending his season.

Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What motivated you to return to the mat?
I’ve been wrestling since sixth grade, and after a culmination of six years of wrestling, I didn’t want to accept that I couldn’t do it. I was in here every day rehabbing, and I spent the last couple days practicing.

Do you prefer football or wrestling?
Football. I like the intensity of the games. Wrestling is all individual and personal gain. I like the team aspect of football and the intensity of it.

What are your plans for next year?
I have a full ride ROTC scholarship to Eastern Kentucky University. I’m going to join my brother and sister up there. I’ve also been in contact with the coaches up there, and I’m going to walk on to the football team.

What do you like to do when you are not playing sports?
Going to the beach, hanging out with friends and boating. If I’m not doing sports, then I’m not doing much else.

Who is your biggest role model?
My brother. All through high school when I was in middle school, he motivated me. He was a big guy, and I wanted to be a big guy. He was a good athlete, and I wanted to be a good athlete. He was the captain of his football team, and I wanted to be captain of the football team. He’s the one who really got me involved in sports.

What’s your favorite subject?
History. I like the military aspect of history. World War II is one of my favorite points in history, and I also like Greek mythology.