High school wrestlers Nick and Jason Singer, along with Shane Wagner, have demonstrated resilience and faith at Faith Christian High School. Their journey through competitive wrestling has been marked by challenges, injuries, and personal growth, yet their commitment to the sport and each other remains unwavering.
Nick Singer, who joined the Faith Christian wrestling team as a promising freshman, initially faced the disappointment of not securing a starting position. Rather than transferring, he chose to stay close to his brother, Jason, and embrace the supportive environment that the school fostered for its athletes. During his first season, Nick participated in 25 bouts, taking advantage of out-of-state tournaments and filling in due to injuries. “I knew my time would come,” he reflected. “I was trying every single day to get a starting spot, but also trying to be a better man.”
As the 2024-25 season commenced, Nick found himself in a similar position, stepping up whenever needed as most of the Lions returned from their successful state championship campaign. A teammate’s season-ending injury unexpectedly opened the door for Nick, who quickly transitioned from backup to state champion, achieving national recognition as the top-ranked wrestler in his weight class soon after.
With the 2025-26 season approaching, Nick aimed for further growth while preparing for his final year with Jason, who had been a three-time District 1 Class 2A champion. However, Jason faced his own challenges after losing his starting spot. “To see him suffer, to know what that’s really like for a year-and-a-half,” Nick said, reflecting on his brother’s struggles. “I remember how it affects your mind waking up in the morning having feelings and thoughts that you’re a failure.”
Despite this setback, Jason performed admirably, winning 23 of 27 regular-season matches before concluding his high school career with a personal record of 128-38. Both brothers understand that their worth extends beyond any single wrestling season, trusting in their faith and the support of one another. “This year has been hard,” Jason stated. “But it’s also been awesome, beating tough guys at tough tournaments.”
As Jason prepares to attend Nebraska, his teammates are heading to various colleges, including Adam Waters to Ohio State, Cael Weidemoyer to Lehigh, Mark Effendian to Princeton, and Shane Wagner to Arkansas-Little Rock. Nick, now a junior, has also committed to Ohio State, showcasing the strong athletic pipeline from Faith Christian.
Shane Wagner, Jason’s teammate, has faced his own journey through adversity. After missing his entire senior year due to labrum surgery, Shane finally found his opportunity when injuries opened a spot on the team. “It’s called power in the pause,” Shane explained, emphasizing the importance of faith and gratitude during challenging times. “It teaches you to pause in times when you’re stressed and accept the Lord, thank him for what he’s doing in your life.”
Both Wagner brothers and the Singers have forged strong relationships that have helped them navigate the ups and downs of their wrestling careers. “It all comes down to that spiritual emphasis first,” said Lions coach Ben Clymer. “Anytime you do things in life, there are priorities.”
These bonds have been crucial for Faith Christian, which has won four consecutive state team titles despite numerous challenges. The Singers and Wagners have emerged as leaders, guiding their teammates through adversity while strengthening their friendships.
Jason Singer remarked on the dynamic of his relationship with Nick, noting, “We butt heads all the time, as you could expect. But we’re so close. He’s one of my best friends.” Their mutual support has propelled them both to become better wrestlers and individuals.
The lessons learned throughout their high school wrestling careers will undoubtedly impact Nick, Jason, and Shane as they move forward into the next chapters of their lives. Their experiences at Faith Christian have provided them with a foundation that will serve them well, both on and off the mat.
