Sports Locker • November/December 2024 • Jesiah Simmons

Jesiah Simmons, a senior at Eldon High School, has a fire for wrestling and track that burns deep within him, ignited by family and faith. “When I’m out there wrestling, it’s just me. I know that if I come up short, there’s no one else to blame but myself.” He credits his older brother, Isaiah, for inspiring him to get started, but it’s his own grit that has kept him going since the 6th grade.

Wrestling has brought Jesiah moments of both triumph and heartache. His sophomore year stands out as a memory that will stay with him forever—not just for what he accomplished, but for the lesson it taught him. “I went up against a returning state champion, and almost no one thought I had a chance. It was exhausting, and I remember thinking that we were both dead tired by the first period. But I wasn’t going to give up.” His gamble to choose the neutral position paid off, and he ended up pinning his opponent to the roar of the crowd. “I’ll never forget hearing my family and section screaming for me.”

However, not all his moments in the sport have been about victory. Jesiah faced a crushing defeat when he lost the state finals his sophomore year, a match that left him rethinking his idea of success. “It wasn’t just the loss; it was knowing that my whole school and family were watching. I could have been the youngest state champion from my school.” That experience, combined with the physical setback of a concussion during his junior year, tested him both mentally and physically. But through it all, his family, his faith, and his coach were always there to support him. “Coach Bird has been with me every step of the way. He’s not just there to help me train, but also to guide me through tough times, like my state finals loss. He gave me the words I needed to hear to keep going.” Jesiah also speaks highly of his teammates and community, who have never failed to rally behind him.

It’s clear that Jesiah’s competitive drive is fueled by something bigger than personal glory. “I pray when I’m stressed or under pressure. It helps me remember that God is bigger than any sport, and I’ll be okay no matter what happens.” His parents, Cliff and Marilyn, couldn’t be prouder of the person Jesiah has become. “From the time we can remember, Jesiah has always set his goals high and put in the work to reach them. But what sets him apart is his humility. It’s not his wrestling titles or track medals that define him—it’s his heart. He’s constantly pouring into others and helping them achieve their goals, too.”

Jesiah’s achievements on the mat and track are impressive, with a record of 38-1 in wrestling and a role in helping the Eldon track team secure its first-ever podium finish at state. But ask him what he wants to be remembered for, and his answer isn’t about accolades. “I want to leave a legacy as a hard-working Christian athlete who didn’t just push through struggles but also helped others through theirs.”

Looking toward the future, Jesiah is exploring college opportunities, particularly those that align with his interests in civil engineering. While his athletic journey may continue, his eyes are set on more than just sports. “I’ve learned from my family that you’re stronger when you have people to support you.” Being the youngest of 5 siblings (Isaiah, Caleb, Sariah, and Samuel) he feels plenty of love and support from his family. And with his family, community, and faith in his corner, there’s no telling how far he’ll go. His parents sum it up best, “Jesiah has natural ability, but what makes him truly great is his character. He’s the definition of humility and a true leader both on and off the mat.”