Kyle Snyder, the youngest US wrestler to ever win Olympic gold in 2016, is competing in the Olympics again this year with Team USA, now as a more veteran member of the team. Snyder has an impressive track record, boasting three NCAA championships, two world championships, and a silver medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The top wrestling competitors are the US, Russia, and Iran, which adds geopolitical zest to the bouts, Snyder noted.
Snyder and I met in Philadelphia—he lives and trains in State College, Pennsylvania—before he headed out to France.
Your faith and wrestling
Your faith came about through wrestling, right?
Snyder reveals that his journey into faith started during his wrestling career. Wrestling initially became his focus after he stopped growing, shifting from his NFL aspirations. Initially driven by fear of losing and tying his self-worth to victory, it wasn’t until he immersed himself in Bible studies at the Olympic training center that his perspective on wrestling and life transformed.
Impact of faith in wrestling
Faith played a pivotal role in Snyder’s wrestling success, allowing him to compete at a higher level by freeing him from the pressure of winning and redefining his identity. His commitment to God gave him a newfound strength and purpose, which translated into him becoming the youngest world champion in USA Wrestling’s history.
Faith and community in wrestling
Is that something you’ve seen happen with other wrestlers you know?
Snyder emphasizes how faith is prevalent among wrestlers, with many of his peers being passionately devoted Christians. The wrestling community often engages in Bible studies, fostering a supportive and spiritual environment that extends beyond the mat.
Finding solace in faith
I saw there was a worship service at the Olympic trials?
Snyder reflects on the significance of a worship service held after the Olympic trials, providing a space for athletes to find solace and perspective after the intense competition. The gathering allowed participants to realign their focus and find peace amidst the emotional rollercoaster of victory and defeat.
Embracing the essence of wrestling
What do you think is special about wrestling as a sport?
Snyder delves into the introspective nature of wrestling, highlighting how the sport forces individuals to confront their innermost thoughts and beliefs. The mental and emotional challenges faced before a match are a significant aspect of wrestling that often goes unnoticed by spectators.
Lessons learned through wrestling
My friend who is a wrestling fan said one thing he likes about wrestling is that you have to get beat up a lot to be good—you have to lose a lot and learn from it.
Snyder acknowledges the resilience and persistence ingrained in wrestlers through defeat and adversity. The belief in one’s ability to overcome challenges, instilled from a young age, shapes the competitive mindset essential for success in the sport.
Impact beyond the mat
What do you think about the culture of kids sports now, where you have to start young, be committed 24/7, with travel and all that?
Snyder advocates for a balanced and enjoyable approach to youth sports, emphasizing the importance of starting slow, focusing on technique, and fostering a love for the game. He urges parents to temper their expectations and prioritize their children’s enjoyment and development over unrealistic dreams of professional athletics.
Navigating the world of social media
Twenty years ago, no Olympians had to deal with social media. You have more than 300,000 followers on Instagram. How do you balance promoting your personal brand and focusing on your sport?
Snyder opens up about the challenges of social media, admitting its draining nature and the distractions it poses amidst his athletic pursuits. Despite his substantial online following, he remains focused on his primary goal of excelling in wrestling.
Looking forward to the Olympics
Is there anything you’re looking forward to about this Olympics?
As Snyder gears up for the Olympics, he expresses his anticipation for the competition itself, prioritizing the joy of wrestling over extraneous distractions. Eager for a sense of normalcy after the restrictions of the previous Games, he looks forward to immersing himself in the sport he loves.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Additional Insight:
Incorporating faith into sports, particularly wrestling, can have a profound impact on an athlete’s mental resilience and competitive drive. By finding solace in their faith, athletes like Kyle Snyder are able to navigate the challenges of elite sports with a newfound sense of purpose and identity. This spiritual foundation not only enhances their athletic performance but also fosters a supportive community of like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs. Through the integration of faith and sports, athletes can transcend the boundaries of competition and use their platform to inspire others and spread positivity.
