Finding purpose on the mat

When Roan Zigenis ’28 steps onto the mat, he’s competing for more than the rush of victory. Wrestling, for the Linfield sophomore, is deeply personal — a source of purpose, resilience and community forged during one of the most uncertain moments of his life.

Roan discovered wrestling in middle school, at a time when many things felt out of his control. Schools were closing amid the COVID-19 pandemic. A close friend died. Like many young teens, he was searching for stability.

Wrestling provided it.

Even though he was only able to participate for two months during his first season, the sport immediately resonated.

HOW WRESTLING BECAME MORE THAN A SPORT

Growing up in Gardnerville, Nevada, Roan went on to become a two-time varsity letter winner, state qualifier and two-time northern region medalist. Just as important, wrestling became a support system when his former middle school coach died of cancer.

FINDING A SUPPORTIVE WRESTLING COMMUNITY AT LINFIELD

That sense of belonging carried him to Linfield, where Roan found a similarly close-knit community under head coach Frank Johnson.

“There is something about Coach Johnson’s energy,” Roan said. “The attention he gives you makes you feel like he truly believes in you. It makes you want to push more, get better and improve.”

Roan wrapped up his first collegiate season with three wins and valuable experience — momentum he’s building on as he continues to grow both on and off the mat.

HOW THE DEBBIE AND T.J. DAY ’71 ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP MADE LINFIELD POSSIBLE

His path to Linfield, however, was made possible by the Debbie and T.J. Day ’71 Endowed Scholarship that allowed him to attend Linfield in the first place.

Established in 2015, the scholarship provides support to students with demonstrated financial need, with preference given to those from rural northern Nevada — a mission that directly aligned with Roan’s background and aspirations.

The Day family’s impact on Linfield runs deep. Over decades, T.J. and Debbie Day helped shape the campus through transformational gifts, supporting facilities such as Riley Campus Center, Walker Hall, Michelbook House, the Rutschman Field House, Nicholson Library and the Vivian A. Bull Music Center. Northrup Hall was later renamed T.J. Day Hall in recognition of their generosity. Debbie continues that legacy today through their endowed scholarship, opening doors for current and future Wildcats.

STUDYING ACCOUNTING AND ECONOMICS AS A LINFIELD STUDENT-ATHLETE

For Roan, the scholarship has meant the ability to pursue a degree in accounting and economics while continuing to compete in a sport that shaped him.

“It’s bigger than myself now,” he said. “When I’m out there, it’s for my love of wrestling — and for everyone who believed in me and helped me get here.”

Through scholarship support and a community that champions student success, Roan is building a future grounded in gratitude, discipline and purpose — one match at a time.