Nick Lirette Q&A: Teammates, Motivation And More

Throughout the offseason, GoHeels.com has been chatting with members of the UNC Wrestling team to check in throughout this extended time off. This week, Nick Lirette talks about his last few months, the motivation he has headed into his senior season and more.

You can find the full Q&A below.

GoHeels: What have you been doing this offseason to stay in shape and prepared for the season?

Nick Lirette: Honestly, I have been relaxing more than usual. Of course I have still been working out nearly every day, but I have made it a point to keep myself fresh and happy. I realized over the course of my career that it is just as important to keep things fun and enjoyable as it is to work hard. I know that I will be prepared when the time comes.

GH: Can you describe the motivation you have going into your senior season in Chapel Hill?

NL: I am coming in more relaxed and ready than ever. I've done a lot of thinking over the past year or two, and developed some wisdom that I believe has changed me for the better. I am very eager to demonstrate the changes I have made on and off of the mat this season.

GH: As a Chapel Hill local, how has the atmosphere been around town?

NL: Right now, I think that the culture of Chapel Hill is quiet. People are just going about their days and doing only what is necessary. To me, it is nice to have some peace and quiet, and some time to catch a breath. For those of us at UNC, I think things could seem to be moving at 100 miles per hour at times, and we finally get the chance to pause and appreciate how far we have come.

GH: A lot has been talked this offseason about team culture and being a good teammate. In your mind, can you describe what makes a great teammate?

NL: Firstly, a great teammate is not afraid to show vulnerability and compassion to their teammates. They are willing to think and act selflessly for the teammates around them for the benefit of the entire team rather than only themselves.

Secondly, a great teammate leads by what they do instead of what they say. They would never say something they wouldn't do themselves.

Thirdly, a great teammate includes everyone. They ensure that everyone feels that they are equally important in accomplishing the team's goal, and recognize that everyone has something to offer.

GH: Specifically on the mat, what are you going to be working on most this year to improve once the season rolls around?

NL: On the mat, I will be focusing most on the team. That means doing my part as well as helping others to do their part. I also want to focus on why I started wrestling: because it is fun. I feel like I have taken the fun out of wrestling for myself a lot of times and it took away from my performance. The most important point at the end of the day is that it is a sport, and the goal of sports is not just winning, but enjoyment.

Scoreboard Slider

University of North Carolina Athletics

Players Mentioned

Nick Lirette

Related Videos