A New Grip: Jason Gonzalez's Journey
by Liam Gatcliffe
For the past three years, the athletic facilities of Christopher Columbus High School have seen Jason Gonzalez, class of 2027, come and go in various ways. Whether on the gridiron as a junior varsity football player or on the mats for the wrestling team, sports have been a significant part of Jason's life. Little did he know, however, that the sight of chalk flying and the sound of barbells clanging would accompany the next chapter of his journey.
Into Weightlifting
Jason was a legitimate multi-sport athlete, participating in baseball, boxing, football, and wrestling. He decided to focus on football and wrestling for his career in Columbus. However, in the final game of his junior varsity football season, Jason injured his wrist. He had to make a switch, as his two favorite sports were no longer options.
As a way to recover, he turned to the equipment at the Columbus Athletic Gym.
“Weightlifting sounds cool because I could control how I'm doing and to help my wrist recover. I'd been in the gym from a young age. When I was 8 was like the first time I was seriously in the gym," said Jason Gonzalez '27.
Coach Fernando Machado has put the rest of the team on notice regarding his undeniable talent.
More importantly, he emphasized the player's discipline and work ethic. “Even when he goes on vacation, he finds a place to lift,” said Machado.
A Legacy
Even before competing, Jason was already familiar with the gym. His grandfather owned a gym, where Jason grew and matured over the years. Although his grandfather’s ownership helped spur his passion, his presence in Jason’s life meant much more.
"My dad was our neighbor, our kid's number one cheerleader. He was at every practice that he can be at," said Jackie Gonzalez, Jason's mom.
Jason’s grandfather passed away. Nevertheless, the legacy he left on Jason’s athletic journey remains strong.
"Even though I'm not doing football or wrestling anymore, I know he [my grandfather] would love watching me weight-lift," Jason said.
As a place that was initially used for healing and recovery, the weightlifting gym has become a home for Jason. His passion for sports has enabled him to overcome the challenges of his athletic career in Columbus. With this drive and motivation from his grandfather, Jason is thriving in this new environment.
The gym has become a connection to his roots and has helped him grow into the person he is today.
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