By Blake Chadwick
Rose Hill senior Leven Jones enters his final high school season as one of the top wrestlers in the state. The senior wrestles at 165 pounds, and is known for his work ethic and an old-school mindset built on earning everything he gets.
“My biggest strengths are my work ethic and having the love to grind for what I want,” Jones said. “In my mind everything is earned.”
Jones has been wrestling for 13 years and is a big believer in his habits. Before each match, he locks into a simple but powerful mentality of “the guy in front of me can’t beat me.”
His goals for his senior season are as big as they come: an undefeated record, another state championship for Rose Hill, and a spot on the top of the podium. For Jones, the formula is simple – work.
That means going hard in the room, putting in extra conditioning, and staying committed with his teammates long after practice ends.
As one of just three seniors who have started every year since their freshman season, Jones embraces his leadership role.
“The guys have always looked up to me,” Jones said. “This year feels like we’re going to do something special, and it’s a great privilege to lead these guys to it.”
Head Coach Chris Saferite couldn’t agree more. “Leven is an outstanding young man everywhere, on the mat, in the classroom, in practice, and in general,” Saferite said. “He does what is asked of him and more. He’s a very hard worker and a leader in whatever he is doing. As a coach you want your athlete to be 100 percent in everything, and that is Leven. He will always give you his best.”
