Across high school sports fields, tattoos are becoming more than just body art—they’ve evolved into personal symbols for many athletes. While tattoos have long been a fixture among professional athletes, they’re now making their mark on the high school scene, offering student-athletes a unique way to express themselves and reflect on their journey both in and out of their sport.

According to a 2019 study by Ipsos, 32% of adults have at least one tattoo, with the number steadily increasing among teenagers and young adults. Among high school athletes, tattoos often symbolize more than just personal significance; they serve as a testament to their dedication and resilience.

“My first tattoo was a tiger shark, inspired by me temporarily living in Hawaii,” Marcus Ray, ‘25, a wrestler for the men’s team, said. “It immortalizes that experience for me.”

Ray has been wrestling for several years and received his first tattoo during his time in Hawaii. He views his first tattoo as a physical representation of his ideals.

“I think my tattoos represent me and my beliefs very well,” Ray said. “I only get things tattooed that are [or] have been very significant to my life.”

Additionally, Ray believes his tattoo serves a deeper purpose in life.

“The tiger shark doesn’t care who its opponents are or what they’ve done; [they] will fight till the end,” Ray said. “The sharks also constantly swim, serving as a reminder to keep going and not dwell on past shortcomings.”

Ray feels that tattoos play a crucial role in shaping how athletes are perceived in their sport and believes his tattoo adds to his presence on the mat.

“People assume that wrestlers with tattoos are either good, strong or tough,” Ray said. “I think every tattoo makes you either 15% better at wrestling or 15% stronger.”

Ray acknowledges that wrestling has shaped him as a person, which in turn influences the ink he chooses.

“Tattoos are a part of my identity on and off the mat,” Ray said. “The parents [in the stands] even call me ‘Tattoo.’ They [tattoos] tell the story of my life—each one represents a memory, lesson, or experience that has shaped me into the man I am today.”

Denny Devine, ‘25, a track and field athlete, said his first tattoo represents his deep-rooted connection with his family.

“I was raised with four of my cousins, and we all got matching tattoos,” Devine said. “We each have a different element from ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender.’ Mine is fire, which represents ambition and growth—big values in my life.”

Devine said that while his tattoo isn’t directly related to his sport, it plays a role in his athletic mindset.

“There have been times before a race when I think about the ambition, growth and power that fire represents,” Devine said. “It helps calm my nerves and prepare me mentally.”

Despite not yet having a sports-related tattoo, Devine said he remains open to the idea.

“If I qualify for the Olympics at some point, I would definitely get the rings tattooed somewhere on my body,” Devine said. “My tattoo doesn’t represent specific challenges in my sport, but it reminds me to stay focused on my goals in both life and athletics.”

For many athletes, tattoos are a blend of personal history, cultural ties and sports influence. Whether serving as a symbol of perseverance, a tribute to a loved one or a reminder of personal values, tattoos have become a meaningful way for student-athletes to tell their stories. As the trend continues to rise, these inked expressions stand as lasting testaments to their journeys, both on and off the field

“Ultimately, my tattoos tell the story of my life,” Ray said. “Each one represents a memory, lesson, or experience that has shaped me into the man I am today. My tattoos are more than just art; they’re a part of who I am.”

This story was originally published on The Chatterbox on April 2, 2025.