They say it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog. Wrestling in the 133-weight-class, redshirt-senior Alijah Jeffery is approaching the end of his career as an NIU wrestler. Jeffery currently leads the team in career wins including a 16-8 record this year.

Q: What has been your biggest challenge throughout your college years?

A: My biggest challenge during college was learning to manage social [life], sports, and school. It’s not easy to give the correct amount of attention to all three and it took me awhile to learn.

 

 

Q: Have you given any thought to your plans after NIU? If so, what do you plan on doing?

A: Currently my plan is to move to Des Moines following graduation and find a career in the communication field.

 

 

Q: Your Favorite moment as a wrestler during your NIU career?

A: It’s hard to pick one favorite moment as a college wrestler because I thoroughly enjoy every second of it, but if I had to choose one, I would say our first trip out to Charleston was great. We won our dual, visited the beach, and had some great barbeque.

 

Q: Before a match, before stepping on the mats. What’s going through your mind?

A: Before I step on the mats, I try to stay relaxed and tell myself you’ve done this a million times. You’re ready.

 

Q: What has been your favorite part of working with Coach Ryan?

A: Coach Ryan has always believed in me and seen things I didn’t even see in myself.

 

Q: You’re a senior now, and many of your teammates are set to return next year. How do you think the guys will compete next season?

A: The program is only getting better, and I believe these young guys are going to take this program to new heights.

 

Q: What is your favorite hobby or sport besides wrestling?

A: Golf

 

Q: Xbox or Playstation? Your favorite game?

A: Playstation all the way, my favorite game is Fallout

 

Q: What is your favorite music to listen to?

A: Country

 

Q: Where is your favorite place to eat at in DeKalb? What is the usual order?

A: Pho N’ Grill, Banh Mi

 

Q: If you could choose only one movie to watch for the rest of your life, which one would it be?

A: Oldschool