State Bank Financial Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Chris Ledden and Jessica Weiler

Siblings: Jasmine, Mia, Keenen, Jayden and Torie

Position or events: 150 lb weight class, safety, middle infielder/outfielder

Career highlight: 

One of my biggest career highlights was finally making it to state my senior year after coming so close multiple times in the past. Competing in such a tough sectional every year with some of the best wrestlers made it even more challenging, which makes reaching state mean that much more to me. Even though it didn’t end exactly how I wanted, I’m still proud of how far I’ve come. Being able to get my name up on some of the record boards in the wrestling room along the way is something I’ll always be proud of.

Who introduced you to the sport?

My dad introduced me to wrestling. He grew up wrestling himself, and starting in first grade, he got me out on the mat and was there with me every step of the way. He came to practices throughout my youth and has always been a great mentor and teacher for me. After winning my first wrestling tournament, I really fell in love with the sport, and that’s what kept me going from there.

Has this always been your favorite sport? 

Balancing three sports has made that a tough question to answer, because each one has played a different role for me growing up. I’ve always seen football as my fun sport, where I can play freely, enjoy the team atmosphere, and just compete with a lot of energy. Wrestling has been my more serious sport, where I’ve put in the most time, effort, and dedication, while still building strong bonds with my teammates. Baseball, on the other hand, has been more relaxed and laid back for me—there are fewer nerves, but I still take pride in working hard and improving.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?

Coming into high school, I wasn’t as focused on academics and didn’t really think my freshman year grades mattered. Over time, especially by my senior year, I’ve really seen the value of having strong grades and being successful in the classroom. I’ve learned how to use my time better, especially during study halls, which has allowed me to stay on top of my work. Because of that, I don’t have to worry about homework piling up after practice or over the weekends when I’m tired and ready to relax.

What is your favorite part about this sport?

My favorite part about the sport is the bonds and friendships I’ve built along the way, along with the hardships and lessons that come with it. From the early morning practices to the long days where coach says “one more” and it turns into another three rounds of money rolls, those moments have really shaped me. It can be a stressful sport at times, but having a strong support system and being surrounded by a great group of teammates makes it all worth it.

What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?

I think a big part of what’s kept me going is all the time and dedication I’ve already put into the sport. Every year, I’ve just wanted to see the best version of myself. There have definitely been times where I’ve gotten frustrated and thought about quitting, but I knew I had come too far and that I would miss it if I walked away. Having people around me has also made a huge difference — especially my best friend Jon Sternweis — who’s been my practice partner since middle school and someone I can always talk to and relate to.

What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/mat?

I’d say my biggest assets are my speed and agility, along with my ability to adapt and learn quickly. I’m able to make adjustments during matches and pick up on things fast, and I’m always open to learning new techniques. I’m constantly looking for ways to improve so I can become the best version of myself.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

One of the biggest experiences that stuck with me was placing second at team state my freshman year. Being part of that team showed me what was truly possible and set a high standard early on in my high school career. It felt like we were almost untouchable at the time, and as a freshman, that experience had a huge impact on me. The team also had great chemistry, and the upperclassmen were strong leaders who showed us exactly how things were supposed to be done, which really stuck with me moving forward.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

It’s really rewarding to look back and see not just my own growth, but also how much my friends and teammates have grown into their own personalities and become great people. At the same time, it’s a little emotional realizing how fast those four years go by. It really makes you appreciate everything and reminds you to cherish every moment while you have it.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?

I’d like to give a shoutout to Cody See, Chad Deno, Justin Sternweis, Don Lang and Anthony Kanable for not only being great coaches, but also great role models I’ve been able to look up to. As for my teammates, I want to shout out Jon Sternweis, Bob Shearer, Josh Taylor, Haiden Carlson and Kashton Kilty for always being by my side and constantly pushing each other to be the best we can be. I’d also like to recognize the upperclassmen from when I was younger who I looked up to and learned a lot from, they really showed me what it means to be a Marshfield Tiger. And of course, all the other teammates and coaches I didn’t name who have still played a vital role in the team.

Any hobbies outside of sports?

I enjoy being outside and exploring new places whenever I can. I like staying active even outside of the three sports I play, whether that’s playing pickleball or spikeball with friends. I also enjoy hunting in November and fishing with my friends throughout the summer and winter.

Favorite song?

My favorite song is a tough question because my taste changes with my mood, but I really enjoy older country like Johnny Cash or Hank Williams Jr. I’m also a fan of Red Hot Chili Peppers, especially “Scar Tissue.” If I had to pick just one right now it would be “Time Marches On” by Tracy Lawrence.

Future plans?

I plan to major in construction management, either at NDSU or ASU, or potentially continue wrestling while pursuing the same major at MSOE.