A view of leadership and character development through the eyes and actions of a world-class athlete.

SUMMARY

For NCAA Division I heavyweight wrestling champion and newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24, what happens on the mat informs how he manages conflict, planning, strategy and tactics, and most importantly, his development as a leader.

 

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WYATT'S TAKEAWAYS

 - Wyatt's journey exemplifies leadership and perseverance.

 - The Air Force Academy provided a strong foundation for Wyatt.

 - Pivotal moments can change the trajectory of one's life.

 - Tattoos can tell a personal story and hold deep meaning.

 - Winning the NCAA title was a culmination of hard work and strategy.

  - Mindset and planning are crucial in wrestling and leadership.

 - Family support plays a significant role in personal success.

 - Mastering the basics is essential for excellence in any field.

 - Call signs reflect identity and values in the military.

 - God's plan often unfolds in unexpected ways.  Adversity can lead to personal growth and resilience.

 - Mental strength is crucial in competitive sports.

 - Reaching out for help is essential for overcoming challenges.

 - Building a strong foundation in skills is vital for success.

 - Wrestling teaches valuable life lessons about failure and perseverance.

 - Enjoying the journey is as important as achieving goals.

 - Hard work is the only path to success; there are no shortcuts.

 - Self-motivation is key to personal and professional growth.

 - Doing little things right builds good habits and character.

 - Faith and gratitude play a significant role in success.

 

CHAPTERS

00:00 :  Introduction to Leadership and Perseverance

02:07 :  The Journey to the Air Force Academy

05:56 :  Defining Moments and Personal Growth

09:57 :  Tattoos and Their Significance

14:03 :  The NCAA Championship Experience

18:03 :  Mindset and Training in Wrestling

22:05 :  Call Signs and Identity

26:00 :  Family Background and Support

27:06 :  Overcoming Adversity in Wrestling

30:40 :  The Mental Game of Wrestling

35:15 :  Building a Strong Foundation

38:01 :  Lessons from Wrestling and Military

40:34 :  Training for the 2028 Olympics

42:08 :  Finding Joy in the Journey

44:42 :  Navigating Sponsorships and NIL

47:03 :  The Importance of Doing Little Things Right

50:48 :  Self-Motivation and Purpose

54:02 :  Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

 

 

ABOUT WYATT HENDRICKSON

BIO

2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24 is a wrestler known for his remarkable collegiate career and service in the United States Air Force. He gained national attention in 2025 by winning the NCAA heavyweight championship, defeating Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in a dramatic upset.

Early Life and High School Career

Hendrickson comes from Newton, Kansas, and is the son of Todd and Lynnette Hendrickson. At Newton High School, he was a standout wrestler, becoming a two-time Kansas state champion and a three-time finalist. He earned All-American honors in freestyle, Greco-Roman, and folkstyle wrestling, and won national titles at the NHSCA Senior Nationals and FloNationals. 

Collegiate Wrestling Career
Air Force Academy

Initially hesitant about a military path, Wyatt was persuaded by his father to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. There, he became one of the most dominant heavyweight wrestlers in NCAA history. He was a five-time NCAA qualifier, two-time Big 12 champion, and two-time NCAA All-American, finishing third nationally in both 2023 and 2024. He led the nation in pins for three consecutive seasons and was twice named the NCAA Most Dominant Wrestler. He concluded his Air Force career with a 103–11 record, becoming the program’s all-time leader in pins.​

Oklahoma State University

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wyatt had an extra year of eligibility. As a member of the Air Force’s World Class Athlete Program, he was allowed to delay active-duty service to pursue Olympic training. This enabled him to transfer to Oklahoma State University for the 2024–25 season. Fulfilling a childhood dream, he joined the Cowboys and went undefeated (27–0), culminating in his victory over Gable Steveson in the NCAA finals.

Personal Life and Military Service

Wyatt holds the rank of second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and is pursuing an MBA at Oklahoma State University. His unique journey from a small-town Kansas wrestler to NCAA champion and military officer exemplifies dedication and perseverance.​

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FULL TRANSCRIPT

SPEAKERS:  Guest, 2nd. Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24  |  Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99

 

 

 

 

 

 

KEYWORDS

Leadership, perseverance, Air Force Academy, wrestling, NCAA champion, personal growth, mindset, tattoos, family support, call signs, wrestling, adversity, mental strength, Olympic training, leadership, self-improvement, Air Force Academy, sponsorships, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness), personal growth

 

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The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation