The wrestling team has improved from the beginning of the season and most recently took the Ozark Highlands conference championship for the first time.
“The entire team has improved tremendously . . . we said at the beginning of the year that these kids were going to be asked to do things that they never have . . . they have accepted that challenge and are starting to reap the benefits,” Coach Justin Wisdom said.
Conference was on Jan. 19 and many wrestlers placed individually at conference as well.
“The boys seized an opportunity, we had talked about the possibility of winning the conference, they understood everyone had to wrestle really well and pull their weight. The boys were focused on their individual performances and allowed the team race to take care of itself. Very cool accomplishment for these boys and a big stepping stone in the right direction for our Wildcat Wrestling program,” Wisdom said.
Sophomore Drake Murrell placed first at conference and has improved since the beginning of the season.
“I have just bettered my mentality and endurance,” Murrell said.
Freshman Josh Harvath placed second at conference and has also improved since the beginning of the season.
“I’ve worked hard during practice and I’ve put in extra work during the season,” Harvath said.
Some of the wrestlers have been outstanding this season and the coaches have too.
“Our senior captains, Nick Bagley and Hudson Karr have done a nice job leading this team and the rest are jumping on board. My coaching staff is great and they are beginning to come into their own a little as coaches too, ” Wisdom said.
Many wrestlers have set goals for the season and postseason.
“My goal is to place in every tournament left this year and make it to state,” senior Coehen Walton said.
Wisdom and his coaching staff are excited about what the wrestling program is becoming.
“We are excited about what is currently happening with the wrestling program from top to bottom. We can’t wait to see the impact it can have on the entire student body and community,” Wisdom said.
District wrestling will be held on Feb. 17 and 18.