by Ashley Steele

Of the Gleaner

After the wrestling team won its first state title in the schools’ history last year, this year’s members are ready to do whatever it takes for the same outcome.

Marik Dickson, ‘20, is excited for his first year as a varsity wrestler.

“I have goals and expectations for myself this season,” Dickson said. “I am willing to work harder this year for those goals and prove to people what I am capable of.” Unfortunately, those goals are on hold for Dickson as he recovers from a dislocated elbow injury.

The team’s practices have reflected not only their hard work, but their determination to return to state.

“Practices were not that easy at the beginning of the season, but everyone is starting to get used to working hard this year,” Dickson said.

Bryce Anstoetter, ‘20, agreed that practices seemed difficult at the beginning of the season.

“I will admit, they were rough at first,” Anstoetter stated. “Now the team is getting into a rhythm and practices are becoming easier.”

Anstoetter is a returning varsity wrestler and is looking forward to the team’s success this year, as well as getting to know the new guys on the team.

“Colton Kisting (‘22) seems to be working really hard in practice, and I am excited to watch him improve this year,” Anstoetter said. “Overall, we have a lot of great additions to the team.”

Coach Joel Allen, who coached the team to victory last year, also sees a lot of hard work in the wrestling room.

“I know this year will be a building year for us, and that is totally okay,” Allen said. “We did lose a lot of great seniors, but I can tell that the boys are stepping it up this year.”

Both Dickson and Coach Allen agree that this year, the team as a whole needs to work hard towards its goals to have a season as successful as last year’s.

“I think once everyone starts to dedicate themselves entirely towards their goals in and outside of practice, things will fall into place,” Dickson said.

“It is crucial for everyone to strive for and meet their goals every single practice,” Allen agreed. “After all, we are still state champions until we aren’t.”