Wrestling isn’t just a sport for Quoc-Viet Nguyen — it’s his identity, his passion, and his
motivation. A senior captain of the Los Altos High School wrestling team, Nguyen has spent the
last four years pushing himself to become the best version of himself, both on and off the mat.
“Wrestling is all I have, and it is a great outlet,” Nguyen said. “One of my motivations is
myself. I want to wrestle my best and become the greatest version of myself.”
But Nguyen’s drive extends beyond personal success. His younger brother and girlfriend
serve as powerful inspirations, pushing him to be a role model and someone they can admire.
“I come from a family of martial artists, and I want to be someone my brother can look up
to and someone my girlfriend can be proud of being with.”
Nguyen’s daily routine reflects his commitment to the sport and those around him. As a
team captain, he takes pride in guiding younger wrestlers, ensuring they improve and feel
welcomed.
“I wake up and get ready for school. Once school is over, I get ready for practice and
lead the practices with Assistant Coach Dixon,” he said. “I make sure I am a good role model for
the freshmen and be sure to set a good example.”
Nguyen’s leadership has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Fellow senior captain
Anette Fuentes admires his dedication.
“I view Viet as a good person and friend. He’s very outgoing and kind,” Fuentes said.
“He’s helped me in wrestling in many ways, on different moves, and when drilling with him, he’s
a good partner to be with. He’s hardworking and pushes you.”

Sophomore wrestler Ehecatl Rosales shares a similar sentiment, emphasizing Nguyen’s
supportive nature.
“He’s helped me a lot—not just in wrestling but as a friend too,” Rosales said. “He’s
helped me learn new moves, the proper technique, and to not stop wrestling. He’s a great
teammate on and off the mat. He’s really friendly, even if you’re his opponent.”
Nguyen’s wrestling journey began his freshman year, though his martial arts background
dates back much further.
“I’ve been doing MMA since I was nine and started wrestling my freshman year,” he
said. “I’m now a senior, and I have some medals from a few tournaments. I have won every
league duel my senior year. And I have seen significant improvement from my junior year to
senior year. I am placing at many tournaments and winning a lot more matches.”
Despite his successes, Nguyen admits he can be his own toughest critic. “I can be a little
hard on myself after matches, and I tend to isolate myself,” he said. “By the end of the day, I
analyze the match, point out my mistakes, and build from them.”

As his senior season winds down, Nguyen has his sights set on the future. He plans to
study Business at Cal State Fullerton, “I am interested in competing, but we are not seeking a
professional career in MMA,” he said. “After college, I plan to serve time in the military.”
With his strong work ethic, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication, Nguyen’s future
looks as bright as his wrestling career has been. Whether on the mat, in the classroom, or in his
personal life, he continues to push himself and those around him to be better.