The Heart of a Champion: Aaron Brooks’ Unyielding Spirit

Aaron Brooks, born on January 20, 2000, is a force to be reckoned with in the wrestling world. His journey is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and an unyielding desire to be the best. Competing in the Men's Freestyle 86kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Aaron clinched the bronze medal, solidifying his status as one of the top wrestlers in the world.  Former Penn State wrestler Aaron Brooks will take home a bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Games. Brooks defeated Javrail Shapiev of Uzbekistan  5-0   Friday to earn the freestyle wrestling medal at 86 kg. The Nittany Lion led 1-0 after the first period and then pulled away in the second to take home the win  

But his path to this podium was far from easy. Growing up, Aaron faced numerous obstacles, both on and off the mat. His early years were marked by rigorous training, balancing academics with a grueling sports schedule, and dealing with the pressures that come with being a top athlete. Yet, through it all, Aaron remained focused, drawing strength from his family, his faith, and his unwavering belief in his abilities.  

In this artwork, I used the colors red, white, and blue not just to represent the American flag, but to convey the emotions that Aaron carries with him. The  red signifies his passion and the fiery intensity with which he competes. The  white stands for his purity of heart and the clarity of purpose that guides him. And the  blue reflects the calm confidence that he exudes, even in the most high-pressure situations.  

The water droplets and splashes surrounding the image symbolize the fluid nature of wrestling—how quickly a match can turn, and how a wrestler must be adaptable, yet always ready to seize the moment. Aaron’s journey to this point has been much like water, sometimes turbulent, sometimes calm, but always moving forward.  

In the background, the American flag serves as a reminder of the pride and honor that comes with representing one's country on the world stage. For Aaron, it's not just about personal glory, but about bringing pride to his nation, his community, and everyone who has supported him along the way.  

This image is more than just a celebration of a bronze medal—it’s a celebration of the journey, the struggles, the victories, and the unbreakable spirit of Aaron Brooks. As I created this piece, I wanted to convey not just the physical strength of a champion, but the heart and soul that truly define one.  

In creating this artwork, I was moved by Aaron’s story—the challenges he has faced, the victories he has achieved, and the endless determination he has shown. This piece is a tribute to the heart of a champion, and to the many more victories that lie ahead in his remarkable career.