Even after Duke University of Durham, N.C., considered the Central Catholic High School student for a wrestling scholarship, the school still wanted to know he had the academic ability to succeed.
His 4.3 GPA confirmed he has a solid work ethic, and Wednesday, Feb. 6, he signed his letter of intent to attend Duke. He expects to study economics.
Abbate, 17, is in his fourth year on the Raiders’ wrestling team. He placed fifth in the 132-pound weight class at the Sac-Joaquin Section Masters meet last year and earned a trip to the California Interscholastic Federation state championship.
As far as he is concerned, athletes never have an off-season, and they are responsible for finding the discipline to meet their goals.
“You have to be truthful with yourself,” he said. “You know when you’re going your hardest and when you’re not. Don’t cheat yourself or cut any corners.”
• Contact Bob Brownne at 830-4227 or brownne@tracypress.com.
Post a Comment