For most students, hobbies are a way to pass time between classes and homework. But for junior Gavin Zeiner, one of his hobbies is quickly turning into something much more — a competitive pursuit, a training regimen, and potentially, a future career in sport.
Gavin’s passion -Arm wrestling.
What started as a casual interest nearly two years ago has grown into a serious commitment. About a year ago, inspired by friends and professional athletes, Gavin decided to take the sport seriously.
“People like my friend John Barber — he got me into arm wrestling. He’s been doing it for a few years,” Gavin said. “And watching the pros, like Devon Larratt, really showed me what’s possible in the sport.”
Although Zeiner hasn’t stepped onto the professional competition stage just yet, he’s been training steadily, laying the foundation for what he hopes will be a long and impactful journey in the arm wrestling world.
“I do plan on going to the U.S. National Arm Wrestling Championship on April 25th,” he said. “In Dayton, Ohio.”
And Zeiner isn’t taking his training lightly. Using specialized equipment like a weighted pulley table, he’s working to build both strength and technique — two key elements in the sport.
His goals stretch far beyond just winning a few matches. Zeiner hopes to eventually become skilled enough to help others get involved.
“I want it to be no longer just a hobby. I want to be adept in the sport long enough where I can teach others,” he explained. “I want to bring more attention to the sport and even build a small community or sort of club.”
Whether it’s in the school weight room or at national competitions, Gavin Zeiner is pulling his weight — and then some. With passion, drive, and a clear vision for the future, he’s proving that arm wrestling is more than just strength. It’s about dedication, strategy, and heart.
So if you see Gavin in the halls, maybe don’t challenge him to an arm wrestling match — unless you’ve been training, too.
