St. Stephens senior wrestler Avery Rhymer's offseason looks like a full-time job.

He wrestles or lifts six days a week, splits time between school club practices, Combat Athletics on Wednesdays and Sundays, and private sessions on Mondays and Fridays.

It has paid off so far. Rhymer finished third in the state at 215 pounds last winter. He is one of dozens of Catawba County wrestlers who spend the summer forming habits that translate into pins the next winter. Rhymer and others stack practices, lifting sessions, sleep and nutrition plans so they are ready when the wrestling room heats up in October.

Rhymer's goals for the upcoming season are even bigger. He is working to get on the national stage for college recruitment and hopes to chase an undefeated state title. The plan is simple in

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