ELKHART — The 18-2 Elkhart Central wrestling team has had to overcome some major obstacles, with the passing of longtime coach Jim Nicholson being the most difficult.

This week’s Burger King Outstanding Student Athlete has helped set the tone — both physically and mentally.

Though it may not look like it at first glance, wrestling truly is mind over matter. Elkhart Central junior Steven Ferrah is well prepared.

"Steven's a real smart kid. He does a lot of unique things that kids won't usually pick up because he out thinks his opponents on the mat,” explained Elkhart Central wrestling head coach Chuck Bowers. “With all of his extracurricular activities it's really amazing what he does."

Steven is on the state chess team, and is a certified life guard. In the classroom, he maintains a 3.8 GPA and is interested in math and science.

"I took anatomy my sophomore year and I was like, ‘This is pretty cool,’ so I think I'm going to pursue something in the medical field,” Ferrah told WSBT Sports.

But before he pursues his career goals, he's got some for his high school wrestling career.

"We're doing pretty good this year, we're 18-2 as a team. I'm 19-6. My personal goal is to go to state and compete there at the state level, and maybe beat [Elkhart] Memorial as an individual team, and maybe as a team make it down to semi-state and be ranked.”

Congratulations to Steven Ferrah, the Burger King Outstanding Student Athlete of the Week!