Junior Austin Henault doesn’t waste movement on the wrestling mat. Whether he’s grinding through practice or battling back from an early shortfall in competition, Henault’s calm focus and persistence have made him a reliable presence for Lincoln High School’s wrestling team.
Henault has been involved in wrestling from a young age. With a father and older brother who competed in wrestling, it was just a natural part of his life. Growing up around the sport gave Henault early exposure to the discipline and work ethic required to succeed, shaping his approach to both training and competition.
What continues to motivateHenault is the challenge that wrestling demands and the reward that comes from pushing through difficult moments. The struggle itself is what makes success meaningful for him.
“I keep coming back to wrestling because overcoming the challenges make it so much more enjoyable,” Henault said.
According to head coach David Keith, Henaults preparation in practice translates directly to his performances on the mat. Keith emphasized that Henault consistently meets expectations in the practice room and carries work into the competition, setting an example for others on the team.
“Austin does everything that is asked of him in practice and that is evident when watching him compete,” Keith said. “He is ready to perform when he steps on the mat.”
Keith pointed to a match at the Cumberland Tournament as a recent example of Henault’s ability to push through adversity. After falling behind early, Henault stayed focused, worked his way back into the match, and eventually pinned his opponent. Keith added that this perseverance and focus are common for Henault and serve as an example for younger wrestlers on the team.
While Henault found success early in his career, Keith explained that he has developed into a leader who focuses not only on his own performance, but also on the growth of his teammates. On a young roster, Henault helps set the standard for how to practice, prepare, and compete.
Mentally, Henault approaches wrestling with a calm mindset. He prepares for matches by focusing on breathing and avoiding overthinking. A loss last season that prevented him from qualifying for New England played a role in his development, teaching him the importance of slowing down and focusing on scoring one point at a time.
“I hope that people understand how physically and mentally taxing wrestling is on a person and that they have respect for any wrestler, no matter how good or bad they are,” he said.
As the season continues, Henault’s experience and leadership make him an important part of the team and a strong role model for younger wrestlers.
