Story by Paige Zaruba.

Work ethic, determination, and time put in during the off season are characteristics of success that Matt Vislisel exhibits as he competes in the post-season of his junior track year.

Vislisel’s dedication began back in his first season of ever throwing discus: seventh grade. Since then, he has put in a lot of hours getting better in the weight room and working on form.

Tristan Wirfs (‘18)  had a huge impact on Vislisel’s motivation. “Coming in second to Tristan every meet last year put me in the right mindset to win meets this year,” said Vislisel. Wirfs, two years older than Vislisel, was a role model to Vislisel as he taught him his winning ways. In the 2017 season, Wirfs placed first in both shotput and discus at the state meet. “He taught me good sportsmanship and how to be a good competitor,” said Vislisel.

Vislisel is competing at the state meet this weekend at Drake University in Des Moines, and is seeded first. He hopes to “keep that spot and come out with a gold medal.”