by By Dan Ninham
Joseph Pecore, 17, is a senior at Stevens Point Area HS in Stevens Point, WI. His parents are Joseph and Tracy Pecore.
“I am enrolled with the Ho-Chunk Nation but also a descendant of the Oneida, Menominee and Mohican Nations,” said Joseph. “My Indian name is ‘Maaxi’ meaning Cloud and I’m a member of the Thunder Clan.”
“I have been a tri-athlete in football, wrestling and lacrosse and have lettered for both wrestling and lacrosse since my freshman year,” said Joseph. “During my freshman year I had a winning record while wrestling two weight classes above. During my sophomore and junior year I made it to sectionals with one match away from state my sophomore year.”
“Through my tribal values, I try to do my best both in sports and in the classroom and have always respected my teachers and peers,” said Joseph. “My parents have always taught me to do my best and to work hard for what I want. I have a 3.3 GPA and have pushed myself academically for the chance to be a college athlete. My involvement in academics and sports has taught me to stay on a safe path and out of trouble.”
“When it comes to influencers for me, it would be everyone that has pushed me to be the best I can be including coaches, parents and teammates,” said Joseph. “My number one coach has always been my dad, Joseph Pecore Sr. When I was ready to give up he was always right there ready to push me harder and pick me back up.”
“I also had the opportunity to work with Dennis Hall, a 10-time US National Wrestling Champion, a World Champion, and 3-time USA Olympian,” said Joseph.
“Coach Robert King always believed in me and has been encouraging and seen me as dependable,” said Joseph.
“Joe Pecore is an all around solid athlete,” said Robert King, head wrestling coach at Stevens Point HS. “He works hard all year long and really turns it on for big meets and tournaments. Joe narrowly missed out on a trip to the state tournament and was hindered with injuries last year, but we’re looking for him to be one of the best in the state this year should we be fortunate enough to get our season in.”
“Coach Roth has also been a big influence in wrestling and I have always been able to go to him and work on my weaknesses,” said Joseph.
“Football has always been my main passion and Coach Krenz has pushed me to overcome my struggles,” said Joseph.
“As a team, everybody has brought their A-game in the off-season and created a culture in the weight room. The coaches and my teammates have always pushed everyone to be a part of the culture and to bring as much energy as anyone else.”
Photo Credit: Tracy Pecore and Mark Vrieze
Awesome article! Way to go Joe Jr! 💪🏾