Joel Wicki, a king under pressure

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Get the title of the king. It’s every wrestler’s childhood dream. This dream came true for Sörenberger Joel Wicki at the ESAF 2022 in Pratteln. What used to be mostly associated with prestige and honor among fellow wrestlers, marks a turning point in the life of a modern wrestling king, including Joel Wicki, the current king of Schwing Switzerland.

With the coronation, sponsorship deals flutter into the house en masse. At media events, a number of logos from well-known companies adorn the shirt of the Entlebucher. That makes the king’s cash register ring. But fame also has a downside.

Hardly a day without an appointment

“The amount of media and sponsorship questions is huge,” said Daniel Hüsler, Joel Wickis’ longtime athletics coach. And he’s very honest: “It really is a feat of strength to meet all these needs.” Setting priorities was extra important this winter. Keeping sponsors and media happy is one point. Prepare well for the next wrestling season. And then there’s life besides wrestling.

The trained construction machine mechanic Wicki is now fulfilling the following boyhood dream. He completes his training as a farmer so that he can officially take over a farm in the summer. He has already passed most of the final apprenticeship exam, now there are still a few smaller exams to follow. According to coach Hüsler, a few hours in the gym have fallen prey to studying. An ideal pre-season looks different. But the coach emphasizes: “Joel laid the foundation for his future this winter. And that foundation must be solid.”

Fine tuning in training

“When it comes to technology and power, there are always little things that need to be adjusted. But I’m also looking for new areas where we can push the boundaries.” Hüsler talks about things like mental strength, nutrition or regeneration. The latter in particular is becoming increasingly important at Wicki. “We walk a fine line along the performance limit.” Top performances and injuries are often not far apart in top sport, Wicki has finished the pre-season without injuries – Hüsler ensures that it stays that way.

The question arises: how much has Wicki’s regal form suffered from all the demands and stresses of everyday life? Coach Häusler calmed down. “Despite everything, we have had a decent preparation. Joel is not in great shape yet. But that will come as the season progresses.” For now, the coach is happy with his royal protégé. How fit Wicki actually is will be shown at the start of the season on Sunday at the Schwyz Cantonal Wrestling Festival.

Source : Blick