Athlete of the Week

Flames' Andersen outdueling opposition

Accomplishment:Lodi High wrestler Wally Andersen is off to strong start in the San Joaquin Athletic Association. The senior, who wrestles in the 215-pound division, moved to 2-0 in dual meets for the season when he won by decision over Chavez High's Antonio Jiminez last week.

Wally Andersen

Andersen recently placed sixth in the James Riddle Tournament at Calaveras High School.

Family:Walter and Bernadette Andersen, parents; one brother.

Favorite sport:Wrestling.

"I just like the intensity of the sport and the amount of work you have to put into wrestling to become a good wrestler," said Andersen, who first wrestled in fourth grade.

Favorite athlete:Professional wakeboarder Mike Schwenne. "I just like his style of wakeboarding," Andersen said. "He has an aggressive riding style."

Favorite subject:History. "I think our country's history is interesting to learn about," he said.

Favorite hobbies:Andersen enjoys wakeboarding, wrestling and just chilling with friends.

Would like to meet:The president of the United States.

Crowning achievement:Taking sixth place at the James Riddle Tournament.

Plans:Andersen wants to wrestle at Delta College for two years before transferring to a a four-year state college.

The Athlete of the Week is selected by the News-Sentinel sports staff. Nominations are gladly accepted. Andersen will receive a T-shirt courtesy of Lodi Sporting Goods for being selected.