Growing up, Whitehall’s Dionte Wheeler has had his share of big moments on the wrestling mats.

Recently, however, the freshman began his high school career in grand fashion.

In his first match, Wheeler recorded a major decision, 14-6, over Nazareth’s Jack Dressler. It was one of only three wins for the Zephyrs against the perennial powerhouse in a 52-12 defeat.

Wheeler, though, took it in stride.

“I felt good,” reflected Wheeler. “I was a little nervous for my first match. Overall, I felt good, and I thought I performed well.”

Wheeler followed that with a forfeit in the team’s 76-0 pasting of East Stroudsburg North. The Zephyrs had a match against East Stroudsburg North last Wednesday. They will then participated in the prestigious Beast of the East tournament in Delaware Dec. 20-21.

Head coach Tim Cunningham has been impressed with Wheeler’s early showing, and his overall approach.

“He is a hardworking and dedicated freshman,” beamed Cunningham. “He always gives an all-out effort and wrestles with grit. He is progressing well and continues to make daily improvements through his strong work habits.”

Wheeler began his wrestling career with the help of his father, Leroy.

“I started wrestling when I was 5-years-old,” remembered Wheeler. “My dad told me I should try it out and see how I like it.

“It has worked out well.”

When he was younger, Wheeler won his share of tournaments in the past, and wrestling was his dominant sport. He also played football, but stopped playing in middle school.

“My most memorable moment would probably be placing at the junior high state tournament,” recalled Wheeler. “I did win a couple of small tournaments when I was younger, but it wasn’t anything exciting.

Wheeler has been working on his work on the bottom, which he has viewed as a struggle, and he plans to stay around his current weight. Wheeler also has valued the guidance from his coach.

“This year I am going 107 pounds and I have wrestled around this weight class for about two years,” said Wheeler. “I feel comfortable with most of the things at this point in my career.

“The person who had the most influence in my career would probably be coach Cunningham. He makes sure I am always working hard prepares me for tough matches

“I am looking forward to the rest of the season.”