Question and Answer With Three-time All-American Wrestler
4/17/2001 12:00:00 AM | Wrestling
April 17, 2001
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Senior Pat McNamara (Jordan, Mich.) has accomplished many goals during his career at Michigan State, one being honored as a three-time All-American. He is in a select group of 12 wrestlers to receive All-American honors three times during their careers at MSU. McNamara (133 lb.) has had a successful career, at MSU, finishing with 115 career wins. The 115 wins places him in a tie for sixth all-time at MSU. McNamara is also ranked number five at MSU in all-time NCAA Championship wins (14, in four appearances). He is looking to attend graduate school and start his coaching career.
Q: How do you feel about the accomplishment of earning All-American honors three years?
M: I think it was pretty neat. Now that the season is over and I get a chance to look back, it's neat to see. It is an honor to be in a category with so many great people.
Q: How hard has the road been to get where you are today?
M: It's been a long road. I started when I was really young and had help from lots of people. It was hard physically, mentally, and emotionally. These all played a big part along the road. It was a long road, but fun.
Q: What are your future plans or goals in wrestling?
M: I plan to go to graduate school. I want to be a graduate assistant and coach wherever I go. I want to stay involved in wrestling. Eventually, I want to be a teacher and a coach. I love the sport. It will always be a part of my life.
Q: What do you think about your career here at Michigan State?
M: My career at Michigan State has been very successful. I reached the goals I set out to accomplish, except a National Championship. The National Championship just didn't work out. Things like that happen and it is frustrating, but you have to take the losses with the wins. I had many big matches and big wins and being an All-American was a great honor. Winning a Big Ten Championship was another goal met.
Q: What is your most memorable match?
M: The All-Star meet held here at Michigan State was really neat. I was able to wrestle an elite wrestler, at an elite meet, in front of a MSU crowd. I would have to say that was one of my favorite meets.
Q: What was your least favorite match?
M: I would have to say the NCAA Championships, since I didn't place as high as I think I should have. That is one goal I didn't meet. I will always remember that and it will always be a little frustrating.
Q: How long have you been wrestling and why wrestling?
M: I started at a young age (five years-old). My dad was a coach and my mom was also supportive. It has always been with me. My dad and my uncles are all involved with wrestling. It runs in the family. I took it up and liked it.
I just want to thank all of my coach's who have helped me along the way, and the MSU staff, Head Coach Tom Minkel, and Assistant Coaches David Dean and Alexis Vila. I have met a lot of great people along the way. Wrestling has been good to me.