Yaya Orszula
Alex Pierce '26 wins by major decision against his City High opponent on Jan. 12.
West Side Story: When did you first start wrestling?
Alex Pierce ’26: I started at six years old at the little kids’ wrestling club here [at West].
WSS: Who has been your biggest mentor or inspiration, either on or off the mat?
AP: My parents work hard and I like watching the Penn State team; that’s my favorite.
WSS: How was the transition from junior high wrestling to high school?
AP: It wasn’t too hard. I knew that I’d do good if I believe in myself and it’s been paying off: all the hard work.
WSS: Have you ever been intimidated by the experience of your opponent?
AP: Not really. I win a lot but [when] I go out there I’m just calm. I’m never worried. It’s not life or death. It’s just going out and having fun.
WSS: What’s the biggest thing that you’ve learned this year?
Alexander Pierce gets an escape in the third to win 106 Donnybrook for Iowa City West.#iahswr pic.twitter.com/izbfOLCcgq
— IAwrestle (@IAwrestle) December 4, 2022
AP: I have to believe in myself. I know I can beat them. I have to know that my training will pay off and trust my coaches in what they’re doing.
WSS: What do you think is the most significant accomplishment that you’ve achieved this season?
AP: Winning the state title in the freestyle and Greco-Roman [last] summer, making it to the national finals [last summer] and winning Donnybrook.
WSS: What goals do you have for yourself or your team this season?
AP: Win state and then after that, this summer, I want to make the Pan-Am U15 team.
WSS: Do you have a mantra or quote that you like to live by?
AP: Hard work pays off.