Marist’s Te’Jon Beals doesn’t let the glare of the spotlight ever catch him off balance.
The 132-pound freshman wrestler has an even-keel disposition which combines with a wherewithal to realize that his early accomplishments have put him well ahead of schedule.
“I’m more happy than anything,” Beals said. “I’ve achieved more than I thought I would. I’m not really surprised by what I’ve done so far. Making it this far as a freshman means a lot.
“Most freshmen don’t get the chance to wrestle at sectionals, and it’s very special.”
Beals earned that opportunity on Jan. 31, defeating Brother Rice junior James Lotito by a 10-5 decision in the 132-pound championship match of Class 3A Marist Regional in Chicago.
Now, the next test in his bid for state begins Friday at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. He’s one of 11 individuals who won a regional title for the RedHawks, who boast a sectional-best 13 qualifiers.
“He’s very talented, disciplined and driven and works hard on top of that,” Marist coach Brendan Heffernan said of Beals. “He was prepared walking through the door. He had a ton of wrestling experience and some great coaching.
“It wasn’t always easy for him. He lost his first wrestle-off and had several other difficult challenge matches against teammates to earn that starting spot.”
Freshman Axel Rodriguez, his training partner, is ranked No. 5 at 138 and also won a regional title. The two have a natural connection shaped by rigorous daily practice sessions.
“The bond we have is only explained as we’re brothers from different mothers,” Rodriguez said. “He wants to exceed all expectations no matter what it takes.
“Having him in the room adds a great amount of talent, resilience and overall toughness.”
Beals (29-13) is ranked No. 10 in Class 3A at 132 by the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association. He’s wiry and long and has learned how to create offense by using his quickness and athleticism.
“My focus is being offensive and aggressive — taking shots and staying on the attack,” Beals said. “At the same time, you have to stay controlled.
“One small mistake can cost you a match, so you can’t get out of your head or lose focus.”
Beals, who also played cornerback for Marist on the freshman football team, plans on running track in the spring. His introduction to wrestling began almost by chance during youth football.
“I was probably 6 years old playing Pop Warner,” Beals said. “One of my teammates said that I was really good at tackling. He was also a wrestler and he encouraged me to try.
“It just took off from there. People have always told me that I could go really far in the sport. I decided to lock in and see how far I could take it.”
While Beals’ weight class has been typically dominated by upperclassmen wrestlers, he’s made enough progress to measure his growth and development.
At last Thursday’s Marmion Dual Team Sectional, Beals lost a highly competitive 4-0 showdown to Montini junior Mikey Malizzio. In their previous match, Beals lost by technical fall.
“The first time I wrestled him, I knew he was highly ranked and it felt that way,” Beals said. “But this time, I feel like I could beat him.
“The biggest thing for me is believing in myself — knowing I can compete wrestling alongside juniors and seniors.”
For Beals, who’s quiet and inward by nature, the sport has opened a new world.
“I’m usually kind of shy, but in high school I’m trying to step out of my shell and engage more,” he said. “I just keep reminding myself to stay confident, stay calm and believe in myself.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
