Eisenhower senior, Malachi Rothenberger, has already built one of the better resumes in the state. Entering his last year, he has already been a state qualifier, a fifth-place finisher, a club state qualifier, and a club state second-place finisher.
The senior competes at 150 pounds and enters the year as a proven contender with state credentials.
“My mindset is to get better at least one thing every day and to win each position,” Rothenberger said.
Head coach Dillon Archer describes his senior as the kind of athlete every program wants to have.
“Malachi is a mild-mannered and kind individual,” Archer said. “However, for as unassuming as he is, he has also developed a tough and highly resilient demeanor. These traits translate to his style of wrestling as he can never be counted out of close matches and can change the entire trajectory of a match within the matter of seconds.”
Rothenberger’s goals for the season are straightforward: he wants to win a state championship, lead his team by example, and help Eisenhower send a full roster to state.
Next year, senior Rothenberger plans to wrestle at the next level and has already visited Newman and Friends University, although he remains undecided. Regardless of where he ends up, he’s driven by faith and grounded in confidence.
“It feels great to be recognized,” he said. “I don’t feel much pressure because of my faith in the Lord, and I believe I still have something to prove.”
