Joey Melendez Talks Freshman Season, Team Culture

This year, redshirt freshman Joey Melendez emerged as Carolina's starter at 125 pounds. The Norridge, Illinois native went 11-9, winning matches in five dual meets including a key decision over Virginia Tech's No. 11 Joey Prata in UNC's upset of the third-ranked team in the country in Blacksburg.

GoHeels.com spoke with Melendez this week about the season, the team culture in Chapel Hill and more.

GoHeels: Can you talk a little bit about your first year starting and what you learned most this season?
Melendez: "My first year starting was a lot of fun; I had my share of ups and downs throughout the season. The thing I learned the most this season was truly how disciplined every part of your training has to be during the season. During the year, you have to maintain such a high level of output through workouts and matches. And, your body needs to be feeling the best it possibly can. I matured in the aspect that I now understand what has to go into the entire season. This season has made me eager to get back on the mat."

GH: Gary Wayne Harding was in your corner a lot this season. Can you share what he meant to you throughout the year?
JM: "I look at Gary Wayne as a really good friend and an incredible leader who has taught me so much on and off the mat in such a short period of time. He gets me up when I'm feeling low and he keeps me honest when I'm a little too high. G-Dub works so hard and is so consistent on and off the mat. He truly wants to see each one of us win so badly. He has helped me mature in a lot of ways, forcing me to see the mistakes I made and teaching me to correct them."

GH: Many have talked about the culture in Chapel Hill. How would you describe the atmosphere in the room this year?
JM: "The team culture in Chapel Hill is great right now and that has a lot to do with our coaches. Wrestling is a very difficult and tiring sport, but our coaches find a way to get the best out of us. I consider us all brothers. I believe we have really good leaders on our team to get the best out of us. The nonstop camaraderie with this team is crazy.

"Last summer we flew 50 people out to Japan for almost two weeks. Everyone on this team is always cracking jokes and that's what make this team so fun to be a part of. My favorite is Tony Ramos' constant showdowns with [team chaplain] Coach Shriner, whatever it may be."

GH: How have you been using this time at home to stay fit and active?
JM: "Yes, I have still been working hard. I have been working out with a couple of my friends who are also wrestlers. We've been running a lot and still lifting weights."

GH: As you look ahead, what are you most looking forward to next season?
JM: "I am really looking forward to competing again, but more than that, I am missing my team right now. It is crazy how you go from seeing everyone every single day and then everyone is home by the next. I am really looking forward to getting back to training with my team and continuing to build this team. I also love traveling; for me, it helps take some of the nerves away and keeps me loose."

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