by Carter Glotzbach

Last year’s boys’ wrestling team took a hit to their roster, losing many key seniors. However, team members and coaching staff think they can fill those spots easily.

Head coach Danny Struck is confident they can thrive again this season.

“Losing three starting seniors from our regional lineup was definitely a big hit. I’m still confident that we have people to replace them. This is our largest class of seniors in a few years, and that gives us options to fill our gaps in the lineup,” said Struck.

Junior wrestler John Steele agreed with the coaching staff.

“We lost Quintin Smith, who was a sectional champ and the regionals runner-up for his weight class,” said Steele.

“Losing Quintin Smith is a big hit,” agreed junior Cooper Spaulding. “but I’m confident that we have the people to replace him.”

With so many lost seniors, the coaching staff is looking for underclassmen to step up and take the place of graduates.

“One of the wrestlers that I’m looking to step up is Logan Vidt; he worked very hard in our off season, and I expect to see a lot from him,” said Struck.

Other wrestlers agree with coaches about the up-and-comers.

“Someone who I’ve seen a lot in the off season is Logan Vidt; he’s been putting in a lot of work,” said Steele.

Other wrestlers like sophomore General Mclain have different people in mind that might be up-and-comers.

“Someone who I think has a lot of potential is Brandon Mazariegos Roblero; he’s a very good all-rounder, and I expect some good things from him this season,” said Mclain.

Wrestlers are not only looking at themselves, but others when it comes to preparing for the season.

“My goal is to remain wholly dedicated to the team and give 100% in practice every day” said Steele.

Most wrestlers agree with Steele, including Spaulding.

“I want to show up to every practice and give all that I can to the sport,” said Spaulding.

Others agree with Steele and Spaulding about dedication to the sport, but give more insight on what it takes to get there.

“I want to train hard every day and not slack off, but I have to get the proper amount of sleep and eat enough every day,” said Mclain.

With the big hit taken to their lineup, wrestlers have differing opinions on their likelihood to make it back to regionals.

“I don’t think that we’ll make it back. Charlestown is a real powerhouse, and I worry with all of the open spots in the lineup,” said Spaulding.

Mclain agrees with Spaulding, stating, “My hopes aren’t as high for making it back as they were last year. Charlestown looks really strong, and we’re missing key people in our lineup that we had last year.”

Some wrestlers are still confident that they can pull through.

“I think we still have a good chance to pull through even though we’ve lost a few key slots,” said Steele.

Coaches have one final message for anyone who’s interested in the team.

“If you or anyone you know is looking to wrestle, we’d love to have them. A few key spots we’re missing are 103, 113, 132 and our heavyweight, so encourage them to join if they’re close to those weights,” said Struck.