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Volume 4 • 2012

The Sunflower State’s Premier Wrestling Magazine

(From the publishers of Kansas Pregame)

www.kansaswrestling.org www.kansaswrestling.org www.kansaswrestling.org

PHOTOS - PREVIEWS - RANKINGS PHOTOS - PREVIEWS - RANKINGS

Kansas Kansas

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Contributing photographers: Steven Hausler, Mark McCoy, Melanie McGee, Jim Williams

Contributing writers: Melanie McGee, Conor Nicholl

On the Cover (clockwise from top left): Hoxie High School’s Calvin Ochs, bottom, wrestles Fredonia’s Brogan Humphrey in the 125 pound weight class at the Kansas

Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships on 2-26-11 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays (Photo courtesy The Hays Daily News); Ellsworth’s Ty Nienke (Photo by Mark McCoy); Manhattan’s Jase Stone (Photo courtesy Pam Stokes); Hoisington’s Brandon Ball (Photo by Melanie McGee); Plainville’s Trevor Axelson (Photo by

Melanie McGee); Background photo, Lincoln High School’s wrestling room (Photo courtesy Nate Naasz).

Acknowledgements: With a project of this size and scope we can’t possibly thank all the people that have contributed, but a special thank you goes out to the school secretaries, athletic directors, coaches and parents who helped us

secure team information and ensure Kansas Mat Preview’s fourth annual issue is a success. Thank you to the advertisers who made this possible - without your support this publication would not be a reality. To all those involved with the completion of this publication in any way, thank you.

John Baetz John Baetz Publisher Publisher

Co-owner of Sixteen 60 Publishing Co., including the Lincoln Sentinel

and Chapman News-Times community newspapers, Kansas

Pregame Football Magazine, Kansas Hardwood Basketball

Magazine, and Kansas Mat Preview.

Bree McReynolds-Baetz Bree McReynolds-Baetz Publisher Publisher

Co-owner of Sixteen 60 Publishing Co., including the Lincoln Sentinel

and Chapman News-Times community newspapers, Kansas

Pregame Football Magazine, Kansas Hardwood Basketball Magazine, and

Kansas Mat Preview.

Volume 4 • 2012

The Sunflower State’s Premier Wrestling Magazine (From the publishers of Kansas Pregame)

The following letter is from Cherryvale wrestling coach James Renfro, the president of the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association (KWCA). The KWCA continues to be a key partner in developing Kansas Mat Preview and we encourage all coaches across the Sunflower State to join this great organization.

Dear Kansas wrestling coaches and KWCA members,

Thanks to all of those who recently attended the 2012 KWCA Fall Coaches Clinic in Salina. The weekend was another great success. We had 149 coaches in attendance for the clinic and a total of 179 coaches who became members of the KWCA. Coach Mark Cody (University of Oklahoma) was very impressed with the turnout of Kansas coaches and your willingness to improve your coaching skills.

Coaches Mark Cody, Cy Wainwright (Benedictine College), Cody Bickley and Bill Zadick, both from the Olympic Training Center, were excellent clinicians that brought a wealth of information and technique to our Kansas Coaches. On Saturday, we honored coaches, athletes, media, contributors and administrators that have made a difference in the sport of wrestling in Kansas. Coach Kyle Mines of Oberlin was inducted into the KWCA Hall of Fame for his success in coaching and how he impacted student athletes during his coaching career. Coach Dick Gilman of Paola was also inducted into the KWCA Hall of Fame. Coach Gilman was the inaugural coach of Paola High School wrestling. Bo Maynes of Salina South was inducted as an athlete. Bo wrestled for the University of Oklahoma and is in his sixth year as the head wrestling coach at Norman High School. Zach Roberson of Blue Valley Northwest High School was inducted as well. Zach contin - ued his wrestling career at Iowa State University under legendary coach Bobby Douglas. Zach is also involved in coaching on a personal and team level. Congratulations Coach Kyle Mines, Coach Dick Gilman, Bo Maynes and Zach Roberson! It certainly was a memorable weekend in celebration of Kansas wrestling and a great way to kick off the 2012-2013 wrestling season.

If you were unable to attend the fall clinic; high school, middle school and kid club coaches are still encouraged to join the KWCA for the 2012-2013 season. The KWCA will be giving a middle school coach of the year award and also award four kids club coach of the year awards. To be eligible for these awards or to nominate for awards, coaches must be a member of the KWCA by Feb. 1, 2013. A registration form may be found on the KWCA home page along with instructions on how to purchase a clinic DVD. Being a member of the KWCA is a great way to help continue to make the great sport of wrestling stronger in the state of Kansas. The group plans the Senior Classic Dual, coordinates rankings, awards an All-Academic team, gives out post-season awards, and honors coaches, athletes, officials, contributors, media, and inducts Hall of Famers each year. Each year the KWCA gives $4,000-$6,000 in scholarship money to the college wrestling programs in Kansas. The KWCA also works toward rules proposals to improve our sport. Below I have listed the KWCA class reps for each divi - sion. If at any time during the year you have a question about the KWCA, you can contact your class rep or me, [email protected].

6A – Mike Church, Wichita Heights 5A – Dennis Charbonneau, Emporia 4A – Brandon Jobe, Bonner Springs 3-2-1A – Billy Johnson, Norton

The class reps will also be coordinating the Senior Wrestler and Coach of the Year awards at the State tournaments and will be nominating names for the Senior Classic All-Star dual. Please assist them with this process.

Thanks for supporting the KWCA and best of luck this season!

Regards, James Renfro

Welcome to year four! Welcome to the fourth annual issue of Kansas Mat Preview, the

Sunflower State’s only preseason wrestling magazine. We are proud to offer coverage of over 90 high school wrestling programs in the state of

Kansas with coverage of returning wrestlers and a look at the team’s prospects for the 2012-13 season.

Wrestling is a family sport where athletes from youth all the way to the college level travel this great state in search of success on the mat.

Kansas Mat Preview is proud to be part of that family and we appreciate your support of the advertisers who make this publication

possible. Look for improved coverage next season as we move toward our goal of covering every high school program in the state.

For more information on Kansas Mat Preview, or to find your copy, visit the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association website,

kansaswrestling.org.

Mail inquiries to [email protected] or Kansas Pregame, PO Box 186, Lincoln, KS 67455 Publication date: December 1, 2012 Can’t find a free copy? Visit kansaswrestling.org to find a link to the digital edition.

Join the KWCA, today! Join the KWCA, today! Join the KWCA, today! Kansas Mat Preview, Volume 4

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Kansas Mat Preview, Volume 4 Page 1

Ark City’s Logan Terrill is looking for a state title after finishing as the runner-up last year.

Garden City looking for 6A title

son and has set a team goal to bring home their first team trophy from state.”

St. Thomas Aquinas will be paced by top-ranked Isaac Dulgarian (138 pounds) and second-ranked Tyler Dickman (132) as the Saints look to improve on last year’s fourth place finish. Aquinas begins the season ranked third in 5A, and the Saints also return state-ranked wrestlers at 120 (3A runner-up Jake Elbrader), 126 (junior Luke Henes), 160 (senior Johnny Perz) and 195 (sophomore Ben Ewing).

Fourth-ranked Newton brings back eight ranked wrestlers, including second-ranked senior Dillon Archer at 195 pounds and four others ranked third in the preseason poll. Andover Central, ranked fifth, will be led by three-time state champion Zac Gentzler, who will wrestle at Oklahoma State University, and four other state-ranked wrestlers.

Melanie McGee has covered sports in Kansas for over a decade with stops at newspapers in Burlington, Chapman, Lincoln, Pratt, Washington and Yates Center and is a regular con - tributor to Kansas Pregame and Kansas Mat Preview.

For Kansas Mat Preview by M ela nie M cGee

In Class 6A, top-ranked Garden City has a new head coach but seven ranked wrestlers including 170 pound number one Anthony Gardner and 182 pound number one-ranked Juan Rodriguez, both seniors. The Buffaloes also welcome senior AJ Hurtado, the state champion at 132 pounds, back to the lineup. He begins the season ranked second at 138.

“My expectations are the same as other coaches, to win a state cham - pionship,” coach Carlos Prieto said. “It’s been since the great Rocky Welton that Garden City has won a state championship and I would like to change that. Our team will be competitive and I truly believe we will be right there in the title hunt once the state tournament rolls around.”

Second-ranked Derby figures to be in the title race as well, with eight state qualifiers and four state medal - ists back in the lineup. Senior Chandler Ayer starts the season ranked first at 152 while classmate Ben Becker is ranked second at 160 pounds after both claimed medals a year ago. Jeff Morrow and Cody McDonald are also returning state placers who made the KWCA pre - season rankings.

Junction City starts the season ranked third, and should figure into the championship hunt with eight ranked wrestlers. Junior Andrew Millsap is ranked first at 145 pounds while senior Kevin Perez (113) and sophomore Jake Bazan (120) are ranked third in their weight classes.

Expectations are also high at Lawrence, which is ranked fourth and returns five state placers includ - ing state champion Hunter Haralson, ranked first at 132 pounds. The Lions are coming off their best finish at the state tournament in school his - tory after claiming third place in 2012.

Manhattan, Wichita Northwest, Wichita Heights, Maize, Olathe North and Gardner-Edgerton com -

plete the top 10 in the KWCA pre - season poll for Class 6A. Ark City returns key pieces of last year’s title team

Three wrestlers are ranked atop their weight classes for the defending Class 5A Champion Arkansas City Bulldogs, who own the top spot in the KWCA’s preseason rankings.

Junior Joey Defore, a 3A champion for Dexter last year, is ranked first at 113 pounds while sophomore team - mate Logan Terrill, the 5A runner-up in 2012, is atop the 106 rankings and fourth-place finisher Wyatt Villers starts his senior year ranked first at 152 pounds.

Arkansas City also returns six other state qualifiers, five of whom

are ranked in the preseason poll. “We have a great nucleus of expe -

rienced wrestlers and great lead - ership from our seniors,” coach Greg Buckbee said. “We are looking for that experience and leadership to help bring along some young inex - perienced wrestlers this year.”

Second-ranked St. James Academy is also loaded, with seven ranked wrestlers including state champion Reese Cokeley, ranked third at 120 pounds, and state runner-up Trent Salsbury, ranked second at 170.

“This year’s schedule is very demanding and should help the team get ready for state,” Thunder coach Mike Medina said. “The team has worked very hard during the offsea -

Photo courtesy Mike Beauchamp


Pre-sea son ra n kin g s 1. Ark a n sa s City 6. Sha w n ee Heights 2. St. Ja m es Aca d em y 7. To pek a Sea m a n 3. St. Tho m a s Aq u in a s 8. Ha ys 4. New to n 9. Go d d a rd 5. An d o ver Cen tra l 10. Grea t Ben d

5A RANKINGS 2012-13 TEAM RAN K IN G S

IN DIVIDUAL RAN K IN G S

6A Ra n k in g Co o rd in a to rs: Eric Jo hn so n M ik e Chu rch

Pre-sea son ra n kin g s (N ov. 20, 2012) 1. Ga rd en City 6. W ichita No rthwest 2. Derby 7. W ichita Heights 3. Ju n ctio n City 8. O la the No rth 4. La wren ce 9. M a ize 5. M a n ha tta n 10. Ga rd n er-Ed gerto n

TEAM RAN K IN G S

6A RANKINGS 2012-13


126 1. Greg Jo n es – 11 - W H 2. Nick Ha u g – 10 - O N 3. Ga rrett Gira rd – 11 - LAW 4. Ja co b W ilgers – 11 - M Z 5. Ta n n er M a d l – 9 - BV 6. Gra n t Ho llin gsw o rth – 11 - SM E

15 2 1. Cha n d ler Ayer – 12 - DB 2. K a lin Co llin s – 11 - W S 3. Sa u l O rtiz – 10 - W NW 4. Ja ck M itchell – 12 - SM E 5. Chris Ad ler – 11 - GC 6. Ezio Vo eghtly – 12 - JC

170 1. An tho n y Ga rd n er – 12 - GC 2. Jo rd a n Dilla rd – 12 - SM W 3. Devo n Pa yn e – 12 - W H 4. Jo se Sa n tillo n – 12 - DB 5. Ja ylen Pa d illa – 12 - JC 6. Ala n Clo thier – 9 - LAW

13 8 1. Da n e Ed w a rd s – 12 - DC 2. AJ Hu rta d o – 12 - GC 3. Ja red Su ppes – 12 - DB 4. Da vis M a tthews – 12 - M H 5. Ca d en Lyn ch – 12 - LAW 6. Za ch Ja so – 9 - O N

195 1. M a rio Ga lva n – 11 - SM NW 2. Deo n ta Tho m a s – 12 - W E 3. Arm a n d o Cen tera s – 12 - SM N 4. Sa m Reyes – 11 - GC 5. Em ilio Fo wler – 10 - GE 6. Ra k im Dea n – 12 - W S

285 1. W ill Gea ry – 12 - TO P 2. Na d ir Za yya d – 12 - BVW 3. Do n Fo wler – 12 - BVNW 4. Aa ro n Ra fa lk o – 12 - JC 5. Dillo n Y o u n g – 12 - W S 6. Do m in iq u e Atk in so n – 11 - SM E

106 1. La n d o n W o o d – 9 - M Z 2. M icha el Prieto – 9 - GC 3. Bra n d o n Dipm a n – 10 - DB 4. Do u g Newco m b – 11 - O NW 5. M a rc Gu erro – 10 - W NW 6. Stu a rt Scha fer – 9 - O N

120 1. Brett M o o n – 9 - M Z 2. Arm o n d M cCra y – 10 - W H 3. Ja k e Ba za n – 10 - JC 4. Co d y M cDo n a ld – 10 - DB 5. Jo ey Alberts – 12 - W NW 6. M ik e K en n y – 10 - O N

13 2 1. Hu n ter Ha ra lso n – 12 - LAW \ 2. Bla k e Sto va ll – 9 - O N 3. Tevin Brisco e – 10 - GC 4. Chipper Jo rn s – 12 - SM E 5. Dyla n Bra zzle – 10 - W NW 6. Da lla s Vesta – 11 - M H

14 5 1. An d rew M illsa p – 11 - JC 2. Trevo r K en n ed y – 12 - GC 3. Jo sh M u llin – 11 - M H 4. Co lto n Alm o s – 12 - SM NW 5. Swed i Nta k iru tim a n a – 12 - SM W 6. Ja m il Bro w n – 11 - O N

16 0 1. Du stin W illia m s – 11 - GE 2. Ben Beck er – 12 - DB 3. An d rew Den n in g – 12 - LAW 4. Jeryl Den to n – 10 - JC 5. M icha el Leeper – 11 - M H 6. Ja k e Reed – 12 - O N

220 1. Ca leb Fra n k lin – 12 - W N 2. Ra m iro Ga tica – 12 - SM W 3. Da vis Cla rk – 12 - BVW 4. M a tt K issin ger – 11 - DB 5. Lex Plu m m er – 11 - HUT 6. Ca rter Tiern ey – 11 - BVNW

182 1. Au stin Tillm a n – 11 - TO P 2. Ju a n Ro d rigu ez – 12 - GC 3. Gra n t Spa rk s – 12 - O E 4. Seth Pesek – 10 - GE 5. M ica h Felto n – 11 - JC 6. Gid eo n Bu tler-Sm ith – 12 - O NW

113 1. Jo ey DeFo re – 11 - ARK 2. Pa rk er Ho well – 11 - K M C 3. PJ Chen ey – 11 - TUR 4. K ha m in Cro w – 10 - SEA 5. Bra d en Ho lle – 11 - VC 6. Tyler Hen sley – 9 - SJA

126 1. Chris Bu rley – 12 - GB 2. Za k Hen sley – 10 - SJA 3. Lu ca s M a k i – 12 - AND 4. Lu k e Hen es – 11 - STA 5. Devin O rtega – 10 - GD 6. Ben Lightfo o t – 12 - AC

15 2 1. W ya tt Villers – 12 - ARK 2. Dyla n Ja ck so n – 12 - EM P 3. M a tt Pra tt – 10 - SJA 4. Ta lin Go lightly – 12 - SH 5. Heyd o n M o ck – 11 - NEW 6. Lu k e W ilso n – 11 - K M C

170 1. Brya n t Gu illen – 12 - SEA 2. Tren t Sa lsbu ry – 11 - SJA 3. Ja red La n gley – 10 - NEW 4. K yler M eyers – 12 - HAY 5. Jo sh O rtiz – 12 - VC 6. Nick No ltin g – 10 - BC

13 8 1. Isa a c Du lga ria n – 10 - STA 2. Co d y Ea stm a n – 12 - ARK 3. Ga rrett M cEa chern – 12 - NEW 4. Greg Bu rley – 11 - GB 5. Ja k e Ellis – 12 - M V 6. Da yto n W ill – 10 - SC

195 1. Presto n W eigel – 11 - HAY 2. Dillo n Archer – 12 - NEW 3. Cha d Bla ir – 12 - VC 4. Ben Ewin g – 10 - STA 5. TJ M a rtin – 12 - BVSW 6. M ik e Shirk – 12 - SS

285 1. Na tha n Bu tler – 12 - LV 2. Dyla n Ha ll – 12 - SEA 3. Ga rret Lee – 12 - NEW 4. Sha n n o n M eck – 12 - SH 5. Trevo n W a lla ce – 12 - SCH 6. Da rin Feist – 12 - SJA

5A Ra n k in g Co o rd in a to rs: Eric Jo hn so n Den n is Cha rbo n n ea u

120 1. Za c Gen tzler – 12 - AC 2. Da k o ta Lea ch – 12 - GD 3. Reese Co k eley – 11 - SJA 4. Q u in to n Ha rriso n – 12 - NEW 5. Ja k e Elbra d er – 11 - STA 6. M a rco Perez – 10 - ARK

13 2 1. M icha el O lsen – 11 - LS 2. Tyler Dick m a n – 11 - STA 3. An tho n y M o n a res – 12 - NEW 4. Pa trick Bu rris – 11 - K M C 5. Sa w yer Lik e – 11 - BVSW 6. Jo e Um scheid – 12 - AC

113 1. Sea n DeSha zer – 10 - W H 2. M icha el Lin d la r – 12 - W NW 3. K evin Perez – 12 - JC 4. Ja se Sto n e – 12 - M H 5. Jeffrey M o rro w – 12 - DB 6. Trista n Sta r – 10 - LAW

106 1. Lo ga n Terrill – 10 - ARK 2. Stephen Tu ja gu e – 9 - SJA 3. Christia n Bo wen – 9 - GD 4. La n d o n Sco tt – 11 - M V 5. Da k o ta Ro d d – 9 - AC 6. Griffin Bo ssin gha m – 9 - AND

14 5 1. Reis Hu m phrey – 12 - SM S 2. M icha el Helm s – 12 - ARK 3. Ayo d a le Bra im a h – 12 - LB 4. Pa u l Su hr – 11 - AC 5. Christia n Fra m e – 11 - GD 6. Lero y Fra n co – 12 - HAY

16 0 1. No el To rres – 12 - EM P 2. Jo hn n y Perz – 12 - STA 3. Tren to n W ilso n – 12 - LB 4. Da ria n Y a ger – 11 - GB 5. Tyler M cGa ha – 12 - SS 6. Au stin Sm ith – 10 - TUR

220 1. Tyso n To elk es – 11 - SH 2. Jesse Co lver – 12 - LV 3. Ra ym o n d Ga llego s – 11 - NEW 4. Dyla n Co x – 12 - ARK 5. Da vid Feist – 11 - SJA 6. Na tha n Sta n ley – 12 - SEA

182 1. Nick M eck – 12 - SH 2. Ta n n er O ’Do n n ell – 12 - SS 3. Da lto n Ro d d – 12 - AC 4. Lu k e W eld o n – 12 - VC 5. Etha n Deterd in g – 10 - HAY 6. An d y M u ehlberger – 12 - SJA

113 1. Cesa r Rega la d o – 11 - PRT 2. Za n e Ba u gh – 10 - AB 3. Jerem ia h Jo n es – 12 - PT 4. Ju stu s Sea to n – 12 - BS 5. Jo n a h Lu tz – 11 - HO L 6. Levi Ca rver – 12 - M UL

126 1. Du stin Reed – 12 - CLB 2. K a leb K o n itzer – 11 - PV 3. Cha se Co le – 10 - CH 4. K yle M iller – 12 - BUH 5. Co rey Spa d er – 12 - SPH 6. Cla yto n Him pel – 11 - TG

15 2 1. Jo n a tha n Bla ck well – 12 - BS 2. La wso n Fiss – 12 - HUG 3. Sco tt W hitso n – 11 - BUH 4. Derek Fro st – 11 - CFK 5. Asher Hu sem a n – 10 - TG 6. Jo hn Ped en – 11 - GDL

170 1. Trevo r W hitta k er – 12 - SV 2. Bla k e Ha m pto n – 11 - SPH 3. K o lby Fen n w a ld – 12 - M UL 4. An d rew Ta ylo r – 11 - CLB 5. Nick W a rd – 12 - AB 6. Ja co b Hill – 12 - AUG

13 8 1. Bryce Sho em a k er – 12 - BAL 2. Victo r Hu hes – 12 - FS 3. Tho m a s Rick ley – 10 - CC 4. An d rew Ca n n o n – 12 - O Z 5. M a cen Shu ll – 12 - CLB 6. Au stin Co o k – 10 - SV

195 1. Sk yler Hittle – 11 - CO N 2. Ga vin Ho u ser – 12 - CO L 3. Ja k e Bra d ley – 12 - PV 4. Tyler Ga stin ea u – 11 - GDL 5. Tro y Q u en zer – 12 - CLB 6. Dra k e Ewin g – 11 - HO L

120 1. Tyler M ies – 11 - AN 2. Hu n ter Price – 12 - HO L 3. Ad a m Co le – 10 - CH 4. K a d en K retzer – 12 - M CP 5. Sim o n M u n o z – 12 - HDN 6. Jo n Pra tt – 10 - BAL

13 2 1. K yle W ilso n – 12 - W AM 2. Ja k e W ilso n – 11 - RH 3. K yle M a cy – 12 - ELD 4. Cu llen Ho o d – 12 - LO U 5. Dyla n Stro o t – 11 - CLW 6. Tu ck er Cla rk – 11 - BAL

106 1. Ja k e Go ld en stein – 10 - AUG 2. Jo sia h Sea to n – 11 - BS 3. Levi K ester – 11 - PT 4. Da vid M a in u s – 11 - CLB 5. Bra n d o n Archu leta – 10 - SV 6. Ca m ero n M iller – 9 - CO N

14 5 1. Au stin Hu ghey – 12 - ELD 2. Ta ylo r W a tk in s – 10 - CO L 3. Ta n n er O gd en – 12 - RV 4. Pa trick W ea ver – 12 - HUG 5. Ja co b Du ro ssette – 11 - FS 6. Ja k e Gehrin g – 12 - BUH

16 0 1. Aa ro n Pu ck ett – 12 - BS 2. K yle Arm stro n g – 12 - AN 3. Q u a d e W o o fter – 12 - CLB 4. An d rew Rieschick – 11 - HO L 5. Jo sh M iller – 10 - DS 6. K yle Rya n – 12 - SV

182 1. Levi Eck – 12 - AN 2. Arm a n d o Sa n d o va l – 12 - ULY 3. Bea u Bro w n – 12 - CLB 4. Bren tin Ha k e – 12 - CO N 5. M a tt Lo fin g – 12 - O Z 6. Jo sh Sm eed – 12 - CH


4A RANKINGS 2012-13

285 1. Zell Bieberle – 12 - CLB 2. Jo e Po m a tto – 12 - PAO 3. Ja co bb Bu rn ett – 10 - ELD 4. Jo hn a tha n To d d – 12 - AB 5. Jo sh Ho rn – 12 - W IN 6. M a tt K ellerm a n – 12 - PV

4A Ra n k in gs Co m pleted By: Eric Jo hn so n M ik e M ed in a

220 1. Ju stin Sco tt – 11 - JW 2. Jo rd a n Drybrea d – 12 - CH 3. Gersho m Ava lo s – 12 - PT 4. Au stin Ga tes – 12 - PRT 5. Jo n Y a tes – 11 - BUH 6. Steven Dego lla d o – 12 - ULY

Pre-sea son ra n kin g s 1. Co lby 6. El Do ra d o 2. Bo n n er Sprin gs 7. Co n co rd ia 3. An d a le 8. Sm o k y Va lley 4. Pittsbu rg 9. Bu hler 5. Cha n u te 10. Ba ld win

TEAM RAN K IN G S


Colby opens at the top of 4A For Kansas Mat Preview M ela nie M cGee

Defending class 4A Champion Andale begins the season ranked third, behind last year’s runner-up Colby and third-place finisher Bonner Springs.

Top-ranked Colby returns eight ranked wrestlers including top-ranked seniors Dustin Reed at 126 and Zell Bieberle at 285. Colby’s roster includes eight state qualifiers, three state placers and a state champion in Reed.

“We are returning a good number of wrestlers from last year’s team,” coach Matt Sims said. “This year, we will need a lot of guys to step up and improve on their accomplishments from last year. This group of returning wrestlers worked hard last season to get to where they are now,” Sims said. “They will have to work equally as hard this season to improve and become better by the season’s end.”

Bieberle and junior David Mainus both finished sixth at state last year, and they’ll look to improve on those finishes while helping the Eagles bat - tle for another team title.

Bonner Springs begins the season ranked second in 4A after finishing third last year behind Andale and Colby. Their roster will include the top-ranked wrestlers at 152 and 160 pounds – seniors Jonathan Blackwell and Aaron Puckett – plus second- ranked junior Josiah Seaton at 106 and fourth-ranked senior Justus Seaton at 113.

Two-time champion Andale begins

its title defense with state champion Levi Eck leading the way. The senior has three state medals already and is ranked first at 182 pounds by the KWCA. Junior Tyler Mies, a runner- up last season, also starts the 2012-13 campaign with a number one ranking at 120 pounds and three-time state qualifier Kyle Armstrong is ranked second at 160 pounds in the first poll of his senior year.

“This year we have several talented wrestlers that have the ability to place in state,” coach Brad Lies said. “If we can stay healthy and continue to improve, we may be able to compete for a third state title.”

Fourth-ranked Pittsburg is coming off a fourth place finish and two state placers will lead the way. Senior Jeremiah Jones has a pair of state med - als and is ranked third at 113 pounds to start the season while senior Gershom Avalos, a two-time state qualifier, is ranked third at 220. Purple Dragon junior Levi Kester took fifth at last year’s state meet and starts this season ranked third at 106 pounds.

Fifth-ranked Chanute has two ranked wrestlers returning while sixth-ranked El Dorado returns top-ranked Austin Hughey at 145 and two others ranked third in their weight classes. Seventh- ranked Concordia has three wrestlers in the preseason rankings including top-ranked junior Skyler Hittle at 195 pounds. Smoky Valley, Buhler and Baldwin are also gunning for team tro - phies at state and they round out the top 10 in the preseason KWCA rank - ings.

Conordia junior Skyler Hittle enters the season ranked first in the 195 weight class after placing third at state last year.

Photo courtesy Lisa Canfield

Southeast of Saline’s Jim Weller and Norton’s John Risewick face off in the opening round of the 3-2 -1A State Tournament last season and both return for 2012-13. Risewick finished third at 120 and opens the season ranked secon d in the same class.


For Kansas Mat Preview by Co no r N icho ll

Veteran Hoisington coach Dan Schmidt looked at Class 3-2-1A before the 2012-13 season started. Like last year, Schmidt expects the season to be close — and a deviation from the past seven winters that were dominated by Norton and Smith Center.

However, last season, Norton had its youngest squad in two decades under longtime coach Bill Johnson and finished in a tie for 16th place with 39 points. Entering state, Scott City, Hoisington, Hoxie and Oberlin- Decatur Community were all in a position to win the title.

Scott City won with 93.5 points and Hoisington finished second with 78 points. Hoxie took third with 77.5 points.

Goodland, who finished fourth last season, has moved back up to Class 4A.

This winter, it should again be similar.

“Scott City looks to be the team to beat along with Hoxie, Norton and Oberlin having excellent chances to make a solid run for the title,” Schmidt said. “... (Hoisington) has their goal set to win a State Championship in 2013, but knows that will not be an easy task. There are at least five other schools that could finish number one in class 1- 3A other than the Cards. The top five teams vying for the team title will be razor sharp on points.”

Hoisington, which won the Russell Regional title last year and delivered nine wrestlers to the state tour - nament, returns plenty of talent. The Cardinals graduated four state quali - fiers, including Eric Hellerud, who finished fourth at 182 pounds.

Five state qualifiers return, includ - ing 120-pound state champion Brandon Bell, third place finisher Chance Demel and state qualifiers Zach Sanders, Hagen Hanzlick and Cayton Janousek.

“Several outstanding wrestlers also return that were on varsity at times last year, but lost close challenge matches to state qualifiers keeping them from wrestling in the post sea - son,” Schmidt said. “Some good ath - letic talent that will join the team from the junior high program as three solid freshmen should chal - lenge for varsity spots.”

Scott City brings back 113-pound runner-up sophomore James Jurgens and seniors Alex Kough and Michael McEachern, the fifth place finishers at 120 and 220 pounds. respectively.

Oberlin won the Lakin regional and

qualified six wrestlers for state last year, but 145-pounder Kade Brown was sick and went 2-2 at state. Still, the Red Devils bring back one state placer and four state qualifiers for veteran coach Joe Dreher. Dayton

Hoisington hopes for big season

Dreher finished third at 126 pounds. In addition to Brown, Troy Juenemann and Channing Fortin qualified at 106 and 220 pounds, respectively, last year.

“We will have a tough time filling

all the weights,” Dreher said. “But we have a good group of kids back and hope to improve from last year.” Hoxie had just six wrestlers who scored nearly all of its points last season and returns four of those in

Rawlins County’s Macrae Migchelbrink and Ellsworth’s Ty Nienke are both back after winning a match, and finishing runner-up at State respectively last year.

Photo by Melanie McGee


Hoxie’s Calvin Ochs returns to defend his 138 pound title after finishing runner-up his first two seasons at state.

113 1. Ja m es Ju rgen s-10-Sco tt City 2. K eega n Am o s-12-Ho lco m b 3. Jo hn So lk o -12-Ra wlin s Co . 4. Clin t Ro gers-11-Sm ith Cen ter 5. M a rsha ll Scho ttler-10-Lyo n s 6. D.J. Co o k -10-Cherryva le

126 1. Da yto n Dreher-11-O berlin 2. Alec Ha ger-11-No rto n 3. Da n iel M elcher-12-Herin gto n 4. Ju stin W a gn er-11-ACCHS 5. Trevo r Axelso n -12-Pla in ville 6. Gu y K in d er-12-Ca n ey Va lley

15 2 1. Ja red Jo hn so n -12-Plea sa n t Rid ge 2. Dyla n W iesn er-11-Pla in ville 3. Dyla n W o la ver-12-Sa in t Fra n cis 4. Trevo r Fee-11-Do n ipha n W est 5. Bra d en Sherm a n -12-Fred o n ia 6. M a tt Gla d in g-12-O berlin

170 1. Ja so n Berk gren -12-O a k ley 2. Cla y Co sa n d -12-M a n k a to 3. K lye Pa lic-10-M a rio n 4. Ha gen Ha n zlick -12-Ho isin gto n 5. Hu n ter Ack erm a n n -12-Do u gla ss 6. Jo sh Bra zzle-10-Riley Co .

13 8 1. Ca lvin O chs-12-Ho xie 2. Ja m es La n d o ll-12-M a rysville 3. Bro d y Ca rro ll-12-M a rio n 4. M icha el Du sin -11-Phillipsbu rg 5. Za ch Sa n d ers-12-Ho isin gto n 6. Tra e Gillespie-12-W est Elk

195 1. Tyler Ed elm a n -12-Sa betha 2. Ca yto n Ja n o u sek -12-Ho isin gto n 3. Ja k e Bra zzle-12-Riley Co . 4. Rya n An d erso n -12-Co u n cil Gro ve 5. Trista n Speer-10-Do n ipha n W est 6. Co d y Sm a llw o o d -11-M issio n Va lley

120 1. Bra n d o n Ba ll-11-Ho isin gto n 2. Jo hn Risewick -12-No rto n 3. Alex K o u gh-12-Sco tt City 4. An d rew Beck -11-Cen tra llia 5. Bla k e Gra ha m -11-Plea sa n t Rid ge 6. Bren d a n Arn o ld -11-Lyo n s

13 2 1. Bro ga n Hu m phrey-11-Fred o n ia 2. Ca leb Stu d ley-12-Phillipsbu rg 3. K a sey Bid d le-12-Cen tra l Bu rd en 4. Tyler W a tts-11-Belo it 5. Co d y Ca lho o n -12-M a u r Hill 6. Za k k Ho lla n d s-11-ACCHS

106 1. Trey Fra n ck a -12-Cha se Co . 2. Ty Nien k e-11-Ellsw o rth 3. Jo sh Go epfert-12-M a rysville 4. Bra d y Lo well-12-Repu blic Co . 5. Lo ga n Bo wen -10-ACCHS 6. Bra n so n Ad d in gto n -11-No rto n

14 5 1. Ta gen La m bo tte-11-Ro ssville 2. Cha n ce Dem el-12-Ho isin gto n 3. Ga ge Y o u n ger-12-Ellis 4. Bo we Behym er-11-Belo it 5. Regis W eiss-12-Ru ssell 6. K a d e Bro w n -12-O berlin

16 0 1. Ga vin Gra ter-11-Riley Co . 2. Nick W u thn o w-11-Sa lin a Sa cred Hea rt 3. Steve Y ergey-Dible-12-Ho xie 4. Co le Ren n er-11-No rto n 5. Ga rrett Lo tt-12-M in n ea po lis 6. K a leb Gillis-12-Herin gto n

182 1. K yler Atw o o d -12-Sm ith Cen ter 2. Bra n d o n Sa lm a n s-12-Ho xie 3. Levi Hu n ek e-12-Sa betha 4. Ea sto n So m m ers-12-M issio n Va lley 5. Lu k e Plu m m er-11-Fred o n ia 6. Bra d en Lo ck ha rt-11-Silver La k e

285 1. Cla y W ilco x-12-Cha pa rra l 2. Bra d ey Cha rd -12-Pla in ville 3. Gu s Fa rthin g-11-Bu rlin gto n 4. M o n ta n a Fu ller-11-La k in 5. Co d y Co o per-12-Ro ssville 6. Tyrell Thiessen -12-Hillsbo ro

220 1. Ryk er Green ba u m -12-Do u gla ss 2. M icha el M cEa chern -12-Sco tt City 3. Eva n Sla ter-12-M a rio n 4. Cha n n in g Fo rtin -12-O berlin 5. K a n e W a shin gto n -12-Ho xie 6. Little Bea r Jo hn so n -12-Ho rto n



3-2-1A RANKINGS 2012-13 Pre-sea son ra n kin g s 1. Ho isin gto n 6. Riley Co u n ty 2. Ho xie 7. M a rio n 3. Sco tt City 8. Pla in ville 4. No rto n 9. Fred o n ia 5. O berlin 10. Sa betha

TEAM RAN K IN G S

Hoxie, Scott City also among favorites Photo by David Steinle, Main Street Media

senior Calvin Ochs, Steven Yergey-Dible, Brandon Salmans and Kane Washington. Ochs finished second, second and first in his first three seasons at state and has wrestled at the national level for many years. He won his four state matches at 138 pounds with the closest coming in the second round, a 9-2 decision. Salmans finished fifth at 182 pounds, while Yergey- Dible took fourth at 160 pounds and Washington finished 1-2.

“We could be short on numbers to fill all the weight classes, but I believe we will compete well where we can put wrestlers on the mat,” Hoxie coach Mike Porsch said.

Norton brings back all four of its state qualifiers with junior Branson Addington, senior John Risewick and juniors Alec Hager and Cole Renner.

Risewick is a three-time state qualifier and state champion two seasons ago. He was third at 120 pounds last year, while Hager took fourth.

Conor Nicholl is a veteran sports writer for the Hays Daily News. 3-2-1A Ra n k in gs Co m pleted By: W ya tt Bechtel Bill Jo hn so n Photo courtesy Tami Porsch

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Most of last year’s varsity is gone, but Andover does return a host of talented underclassmen and a two-time state placer in Lukus Maki.

Maki owns third- and fourth-place medals from the last two state tournaments, and will wrestle at 126 pounds this season.

“Lukus is a two-time state placer and looking to pick up his first state cham - pionship,” said coach Brett Fiere.

The Trojans should also get a boost from freshman Griffin Bossingham, who won the kids state Greco title and was runner- up in freestyle wrestling last year.

“We will be young this year, but we have talent with these young guys,” Fiere said. “We will continue to improve.”

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 7-11 2011-12 State Placing: 20th Coach: Brett Fiere (4th year) Assistants: Chase Nitcher, Spencer Shirk Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – Lukus Maki, 3rd and 4th at state, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Andover Central is coming off a fourth place finish at last year’s state meet, and five state qualifiers are back to lead the Jaguars.

The most decorated of those five is senior Zac Gentzler, a three-time state champion who recently committed to wrestle at Oklahoma State, but Andover Central also returns senior Ben Lightfoot, a two- time state placer, and state placer Dalton Rodd.

“We have a great senior class and will have plenty of seniors starting,” coach Chris Saferite said. “Zac Gentzler will be looking for his fourth state title, while Ben Lightfoot and Dalton Rodd will try to add another state place to their resume. Seniors Joe Umscheid and Jay Page will continue on their quest for a state medal.”

Page and Paul Suhr also have state meet experience under their belts and will be looking to get on the medals stand this year while also helping the Jaguars move up the team standings.

“We look to compete each week and make progress throughout the year,” Saferite said. “We have a talented group that will be ready to work hard every day and great senior leadership that will help the younger wrestlers.”

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 11-2 2011-12 State Placing: 4th Coach: Chris Saferite (2nd year) Assistants: Jason Frakes, Joe Bach Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Zac Gentzler, 3-time state champion, Sr. 126 – Ben Lightfoot, 2-time state placer, Sr. 145 – Paul Suhr, 2-time state qualifier 152 – Jay Paqge, state qualifier, Sr. 182 – Dalton Rodd, state placer, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Abilene placed 13th at state last year, led by third-place finisher Zane Baugh, and the Cowboys have 10 total wrestlers with varsity experience back in the lineup for 2012-13.

Baugh will move to 113 pounds for his sophomore season while state qualifier Seth Strauss, also a sophomore, lines up at 132, senior state qualifier Nick Ward stays at 170 pounds and senior heavy - weight Jonathan Todd seeks a second straight trip to state.

“We will have a good mixture of solid underclassmen and experience from the senior class,” coach James Stout said. “We should have a nice emerging group of sophomores that gained valuable expe - rience last year.”

That group of sophomores also includes Logan McDowell, who went 21-13 at 113 pounds last year and will likely slide down to 106 this season. Junior Blake Anguiano and seniors Matt McClanahan and Brandon Rein will also return to the varsity lineup.

Class 4A / North Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-8 2011-12 State Placing: 13th Coach: James Stout (10th year) Assistants: Corey Casteel, Nathan Howard, Tom Taplin, Ross Taplin Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Logan McDowell, So. 113 – Zane Baugh, 3rd at state, So. 120/126 – Brandon Rein, Sr.; Casen Smith 132 – Seth Strauss, state qualifier, So. 138 – Blake Anguiano, Jr.; J.T. Brantley 145 – Matt McClanahan, Sr. 170 – Nick Ward, state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Jonathan Todd, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

ABILENE COWBOYS

Defending Class 4A champion Andale will chase a third state championship with a trio of state qualifiers leading the way.

Senior Levi Eck, the 170-pound state champion last year and three-time state placer, highlights the Indian roster. Eck also has a third place finish and a runner- up medal to his credit, and he’ll look to cap his high school career with another state title.

Junior Tyler Mies is coming off back-to- back runner-up finishes at the state tour - nament. His only loss at state last year was a 4-3 decision in the championship.

“We have several talented wrestlers that have the ability to place in state,” coach Brad Lies said. “If we can stay healthy and continue to improve, we may be able to compete for a third state title.”

Andale’s squad also features senior Kyle Armstrong, a three-time state qualifier, seniors Derrick Gates and Hunter Furnish and juniors Dylan Eck and Isaac Taylor.

“This season, we look for Levi Eck and Kyle Armstrong to continue to be suc - cessful,” Lies said. “Derrick Gates and Hunter Furnish are trying to make their first trip to the state tournament.”

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 5-1 2011-12 State Placing: 1st Coach: Brad Lies (5th year) Assistants: Andrew Nash, Kyle Cline, Jordan Doll Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Hunter Furnish, Sr. 120 – Tyler Mies, 2-time state runner-up, Jr. 126 – Dylan Eck, Jr. 160 – Kyle Armstrong, 3-time state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Isaac Taylor, Jr. 182 – Levi Eck, 2012 state champion, 3-time state placer, Sr. 195 – Derrick Gates, Sr.

Melanie McGee

ANDALE INDIANS

ANDOVER TROJANS

ANDOVER-CENTRAL JAGUARS

Abilene’s ZANE BAUGH


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Atwood had one state placer last season in John Solko, who took fourth at 113 pounds. Solko will be a senior this winter. Last winter at state, Solko accomplished a rare feat when he lost his first match and then came back to place. Solko, 30-7 for the year, lost 4-3 in his first match. After a win by fall in 23 seconds, Solko won 13-11, 12-2 and 7-4 before he lost 2-0.

Sophomore Macrae Migchelbrink also qualified for the Buffs last season at 106 pounds, and won his first match before he lost his next two. He finished 27-9 for the season.

“The guys that we have returning this year have a lot of experience and are really looking forward to the season,” coach Scott Urban said.

3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 38th (tie), 18 pts Coach: Scott Urban (12th year) Assistants: Cody Green, Heath Klein Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Hunter Leibbrandt, So. 113 – John Solko, 4th at state, 30-7, Sr.

ATWOOD-RAWLINS CO. BUFFALOES


A pair of talented transfers and two state qualifiers will lead Chaparral this season. Seniors Zack Duwe and Clay Wilcox are state tournament veterans, and this year they are joined by junior Chip Wannamaker, a South Carolina state champion in 2012, and Colorado state qualifier Jaden Helms.

With those four leading the charge, Roadrunner coach Joe Wilcox calls his team “loaded at the top.” Chaparral expects to have some openings in the lower weight classes, which will hurt the Roadrunners in duals.

Clay Wilcox already has three state med - als, and his goal is simple – win state. “Clay is obviously looking for gold this year, and he has the opportunity to end his career as one of the winningest wres - tlers in Kansas history,” said coach Wilcox. “Duwe is a very talented wrestler looking for his first state medal.”

Chaparral will get a boost from Wannamaker and Helms as well.

“Chip Wannamaker will look to make some noise in Kansas after winning a state championship in South Carolina,” Wilcox said. “Sophomore transfer Jaden Helms looks to get back to the state tour - nament after qualifying last year in Colorado.”

The Roadrunners also return sophomore Chandler Calderon at 138 pounds.

Class 3-2-1A / Central Plains League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-8 2011-12 State Placing: 34th Coach: Joe Wilcox (4th year) Assistant: Brian Lair Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 138 – Chandler Calderon, So. 145 – Zack Duwe, 3-time state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Chip Wannamaker, South Carolina state champion, Jr. 220 – Jaden Helms, Colorado state qualifier, So. 285 – Clay Wilcox, 3-time state placer, Sr.

Melanie McGee

ANTHONY/HARPER- CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS

Six state placers are back on the mat for Arkansas City, which won the state cham - pionship last year. That includes transfer Joey Defore, who went 36-0 and claimed a 3-2-1A championship for Dexter. Defore is expected to wrestle at either 113 or 120 pounds as a junior.

Senior Cody Eastman and sophomore Logan Terrill are both coming off second- place finishes at last year’s state tour - nament while seniors Michael Helms and Wyatt Villers both earned fourth-place medals in 2012. Sophomore Marco Perez took fifth last year and senior Dylan Cox will look to improve on his sixth-place finish.

“We have a great nucleus of experienced wrestlers and great leadership from our seniors,” coach Greg Buckbee said. “We are looking for that experience and lead - ership to help bring along some young inexperienced wrestlers this year.”

The Bulldogs also return state qualifiers Dalton Dietrich and Matt McGrew, both seniors, from a squad that went 11-2 in duals a year ago.

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 11-2 2011-12 State Placing: 1st Coach: Greg Buckbee (4th year) Assistants: Jeremy Biddle, Rich Haas, Anthony Whetstone Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Logan Terrill, state runner-up, So. 113/120 – Marco Perez, 5th at state, So. 113/120 – Joey Defore, 3-2-1A state cham - pion, Jr. 126/132 – Dalton Dietrich, state qualifier, Sr. 138/145 – Cody Eastman, state runner-up, Sr. 138/145 – Michael Helms, 4th at state, Sr. 152/160 – Wyatt Villers, 4th at state, Sr. 220 – Dylan Cox, 6th at state, Sr. 285 – Matt McGrew, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

ARKANSAS CITY BULLDOGS

The Redmen have returning varsity wres - tlers in 11 weight classes, and veteran coach Ed Crouse expects his team to build on that experience in the 2012-13 season.

“We gained some valuable experience last year and with a large number of returners, we should have a successful season,” he said.

Senior Cody Calhoon, junior Jeff Wellingford and sophomore Tyler Harris all qualified for state last year while sen - ior Tyler Hunt and junior Taylor Funk nearly made the trip to state as well.

“Tyler and Taylor were on the verge last year and they show great promise this year,” Crouse said.

Atchison also returns senior Seth Hefner, junior Dane Linderman and sophomores Andrew Adrian, Andy Couffy, Zach Hefner and Blaine Wilson.

Class 4A / Kansas City Atchison League 2011-12 Dual Record: 11-8 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Ed Crouse (16th year) Assistant: Nic Stilwell Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Zach Hefner, So. 113 – Andrew Adrian, So. 120 – Blake Wilson, So. 126 – Jeff Wellingford, state qualifier, Jr. 132 – Cody Calhoon, state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Seth Hefner, Sr. 152 – Tyler Harris, state qualifier, So. 160 – Andy Couffy, So. 195 – Dane Linderman, Jr. 220 – Tyler Hunt, Sr. 285 – Taylor Funk, Jr.

Melanie McGee

ATCHISON REDMEN


Rawlins County’s JOHN SOLKO

Numbers are up for Augusta, and coach Brandon Terry says his team should be deep at most weights this season.

The Orioles also have five returning state qualifiers, including runner-up Jake Goldenstein at 106 pounds. Seniors Jacob Hill, Chance Runnion, Colby Willis and junior Wright Bosley also have state tour - nament experience while seven other var - sity wrestlers are back in the lineup as well.

“This year’s team may have more expe - rience and leadership with 10 seniors than we have had in a while,” Terry said. “We should have good numbers and depth at most weight classes which should help us to again be a solid dual team.”

Goldenstein is coming off a 35-2 season and will be looking for a state title as a sophomore while five other Orioles also won at least 20 matches last season.

In addition to their five state qualifiers, Augusta returns seniors Brett Hamilton, Quentin Spainhower and Cory White plus juniors Colton Clayborn and Jeremy Travaille and sophomore Nathan Moore to the varsity lineup.

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-3 2011-12 State Placing: 23rd Coach: Brandon Terry (7th year) Assistant: JD Hand Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Jake Goldenstein, 2nd at state, 35-2, So. 113 – Nathan Moore, 10-17, So. 120 – Jeremy Travaille, 6-9, Jr. 132 – Brett Hamilton, 17-18, Sr. 138 – Cory White, 23-9, Sr. 145 – Colton Clayborn, 19-12, Jr. 152 – Quentin Spainhower, 20-13, Sr. 170 – Jacob Hill, state qualifier, 25-13, Sr. 182 – Wright Bosley, state qualifier, 21-17, Jr. 195 – Colby Willis, state qualifier, 23-13, Sr. 285 – Chance Runnion, state qualifier, 16-19, Sr.

Melanie McGee

AUGUSTA ORIOLES

120 – Macrae Migchelbrink, state qualifier, 27-9, So. 126 – Rhett Mizer, So. 132 – Jonathan Markland, Jr. 138 – Clayton Griffith, Jr. 160 – Cody Wright, Jr. 220 – Bryce Henry, Jr.

Conor Nicholl

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Two state qualifiers and seven other var - sity wrestlers return to lead Basehor- Linwood, which has a new head coach in Tyler Cordts.

“We have a great core group of kids and look to build off their experience and leadership,” Cordts said. “They are eager to get on the mat this year and show off their hard work.”

Senior Sam Seaton qualified for state last year, and he is expected to wrestle at 126 pounds this year. Junior Cory McCleary, a state qualifier a year ago, should fill the 145 pound weight class for the Bobcats.

Basehor-Linwood also returns senior Seagar Smith at heavyweight, four juniors – Zach Holtgrewe, John Hopper, Josh Summers and Justin Summers – and sophomores Zack Carter and Shayn Morris.

“We have great leaders on this team. They will come in and show the younger guys the way and make everyone in the room better,” Cordts said. “It should be an exciting year.”

Class 4A / Kaw Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-6 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Tyler Cordts (1st year) Assistants: Travis Phippen, Ed Seaton Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Shayn Morris, So. 126 – Sam Seaton, state qualifier, Sr. 132 – Justin Summers, Jr. 138 – Josh Summers, Jr. 145 – Cory McCleary, state qualifier, Jr. 152 – John Hopper, Jr. 170 – Zach Holtgrewe, Jr. 195 – Zack Carter, So. 285 – Seagar Smith, Sr.

Melanie McGee

BASEHOR-LINWOOD BOBCATS

Courtesy photo

Basehor-Linwood’s CORY McCLEARY


A former state champion and three other state qualifiers will lead Baldwin as the Bulldogs defend their Frontier League title in 2012-13.

Bryce Shoemaker won state as a sopho - more, then placed second as a junior. He is coming off a 40-6 season and will wrestle at 138 pounds this year.

Jason Von Bargen went 31-14 and quali - fied for state a year ago. He’ll move to 160 pounds for his senior season. Junior Tucker Clark and sophomore Jon Pratt also have state tournament experience.

Seniors Mark Harman and Colton Horne are also back in the lineup along with jun - ior Ben Huntington and sophomore Dalton Mitchell.

“We should have a solid lineup top to bot - tom,” coach Kit Harris said. “We’ll have some great wrestle-offs for varsity.”

Class 4A / Frontier League 2011-12 Dual Record: 13-1 2011-12 State Placing: 6th Coach: Kit Harris Assistants: N/A Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Ben Huntington, 9-13, Jr. 120 – Jon Pratt, state qualifier, 27-14, So. 132 – Tucker Clark, 2-time state qualifier, 29- 10, Jr. 138 – Bryce Shoemaker, 2nd at state, 40-6, Sr. 160 – Jason Von Bargen, state qualifier, 31- 14, Sr.; Colton Horne, 12-19, Sr. 170 – Mark Harman, 16-15, Sr.; Dalton Mitchell, 4-22, So.

Melanie McGee

BALDWIN BULLDOGS

Coach Andy Niemczyk has built a pow - erhouse with the Trojans. In the last 32 years, Beloit won state titles from 1980- 85 and a tie for first in 2007 with Smith Center.

Last year, Beloit had another solid season and returns four wrestlers with state expe - rience, including Bowe Behymer, who is a two-time state placer. Clay Cosand is a returning state placer, who competes with Beloit during the season, but attends Mankato-Rock Hills.

“We have a good nucleus of experience returning,” coach Niemczyk said. “We will be especially strong in the middle weights. I feel we could qualify five or six for state and possibly place that many.”

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-7 2011-12 State Placing: 16th Coach: Andy Niemczyk (31st overall, 27th year as head coach) Assistants: Jeff Heiman, Ryan Malay, Mark Hewitt Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Bryce Zachary, Jr. 132 – Alex Conn, state qualifier, 18-14, Jr. 138 – Tyler Watts, state qualifier, 28-10, Jr., 145 – Tanner Niemczyk, 18-16, Jr. 152/160 – Bowe Behymer, 2-time state placer (4th, 6th), 33-7, Jr. 160 – Caleb Marshall, Sr. 160/170 – Danny Perez, 10-17, Sr. 182 – Clay Cosand, state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Dylan Heidrick, 19-15, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

BELOIT TROJANS


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A year ago, Chapman fielded an extremely young team and came away with few wins, but the 2012-13 Irish should be much improved.

“I feel we’ll have a much stronger team this year,” coach Jeff Sheets said. “Last year we had no upperclassmen. This year my juniors will become the leaders, and after two hard years they are ready to compete.”

That junior class includes Zach Witt, expected to line up at 170 pounds, Robert Walsh at 182, Stone Hayden at 145 and David Floyd at 132.

“Zach Witt had a difficult year and should be very competitive this season,” Sheets said. “Sophomore Cole Sutterfield will also be a much improved wrestler.”

Sophomore Nathan Nelson also returns to the varsity, and will likely wrestle at 113 this year.

Class 4A / North Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 1-13 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Jeff Sheets (13th year) Assistant: Noel Richardson Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Nathan Nelson, So. 120 – Cole Sutterfield, So. 132 – David Floyd, Jr. 145 – Stone Hayden, Jr. 170 – Zach Witt, Jr. 182 – Robert Walsh, Jr.

Melanie McGee

CHAPMAN FIGHTING IRISH

The entire varsity lineup is back for Buhler, which has a new head coach in Mike Juby. His first Crusader squad will include three state placers and another wrestler with state tournament expe - rience.

“We have a solid core returning, with all of our varsity wrestlers back from last season,” Juby said. “All four of our 2012 state qualifiers will be back on the mat this year.

Seniors Jake Gehring and Kyle Miller and junior Scott Whitson all have state medals from previous seasons while junior Jon Yates qualified for the 2012 state tour - nament.

“Jake Gehring and Kyle Miller will both be looking to return to the state podium after placing their sophomore years but coming up short last year,” Juby said. “Seeking an improvement on his fifth place finish is Scott Whitson while Jon Yates will try to build on a breakout 2011-12 season.”

Buhler also returns seniors Brandon Bertholf and Nick Ringler plus juniors Marcus Gaeddert, Henry Hickert and Dakota Yehle.

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-6 2011-12 State Placing: 34th Coach: Mike Juby (1st year) Assistants: Mike Zeyen, Willie Adkins, Travis Mullen, Kyle Michelstetter Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 - Jesse James, Jr. 126 – Kyle Miller, 2-time state qualifier, 6th at 2011 state, Sr. 132 – Brandon Berthold, Sr. 138 – Marcus Gaeddert, Jr. 152 - Jake Gehring, 3-time state qualifier, 4th at 2011 state, Sr. 160 – Scott Whitson, 2-time state qualifier, 5th at state, Jr. 170 – Logan Lindbloom, Sr. 182 – Henry Hickert, Jr. 195 – Dakota Yehle, Jr. 220 – Jon Yates, state qualifier, Jr. 285 – Nick Ringler, Sr.

Melanie McGee

BUHLER CRUSADERS

Heavyweight junior Gus Farthing is the lone Wildcat with state meet experience, but Burlington coach Doug Vander Linden is excited about his team’s poten - tial.

“We are looking forward to developing this young team over the next several sea - sons,” Vander Linden said. “There is lots of talent across each grade level and we are hoping to develop them into state- level competitors through their hard work and dedication.”

Farthing finished sixth at the 2012 state meet and will be looking for his third trip to Hays in the heavyweight class. He’ll be pushed in practice by senior teammate Alec Smith, who could wrestle at either 220 or 285.

“Gus is looking to continue his climb up the state podium in 2013,” Vander Linden said. “He and teammate and practice part - ner Alec Smith have the ability to provide a 1-2 punch as the anchors of our lineup.”

Burlington’s lineup will also include sophomore Kendall Jeffers and juniors Chris Ferguson and Joe Metzger with var - sity experience.

Class 3-2-1A / Tri-Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: 22-6 2011-12 State Placing: 8th Coach: Doug Vander Linden (22nd year) Assistants: Rusty Emling, Tim Johnson Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 132 – Kendall Jeffers, So. 145 – Chris Ferguson, Jr. 170 – Joe Metzger, Jr. 220/285 – Alec Smith, Sr. 285 – Gus Farthing, 2-time state qualifier, 6th in 2012, Jr.

Melanie McGee

BURLINGTON WILDCATS

The Chargers return just one state quali - fier, but coach Regan Erickson is still excited about his team’s potential.

“We have a young and hardworking team, have good leadership in our seniors, and will be competitive in several weight classes,” he said. “Seniors Andy Dennison and Rylan Piper have both been starters the last two years, and bring the most experience to the mat.”

Dennison is expected to wrestle at 138 and Piper at 145.

“Junior Tyler Mundy was a state qualifier as a freshman and is looking to make another state tournament run,” Erickson said of Santa Fe Trail’s 132-pounder. “Sophomore Chaz Wright was varsity most of his freshman year, and put in a good offseason, placing third at Kids State and runner up at the Sunflower State Games.”

Wright will wrestle at 160, while class - mate Zac West lines up at 113 and junior Jacob Purvis will compete at 195 pounds for the Chargers, who went 15-8 in duals last season.

Class 4A / Big 7 League 2011-12 Dual Record: 15-8 2011-12 State Placing: 27th Coach: Regan Erickson (16th year) Assistants: Josh Cauthon, Merrick Wiles, Chad Schmale Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Zac West, So. 132 – Tyler Mundy, 2011 state qualifier, Jr. 138 – Andy Dennison, Sr. 145 – Rylan Piper, Sr. 160 – Chaz Wright, So. 195 – Jacob Purvis, Jr.

Melanie McGee

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State medalist Skyler Hittle and qualifier Brentin Hake are back to headline the Panther lineup in 2012-13. Concordia is coming off a seventh place finish at the state tournament, and nine wrestlers return with varsity experience.

Hittle, a junior, has qualified for state both years and earned a third place medal last season. Hake is seeking to cap his high school career with another trip to state while senior Blaine Payeur and three juniors look for their first state tour - nament experience.

“I am looking forward to working with this group of young men,” coach Kevin Brown said. “They are extremely hard workers and great listeners, making them very fun to coach.”

Concordia’s roster also includes juniors Hadrian Currier (a varsity wrestler last year at Chapman), Kyle Marks and Zac Romo, and sophomores Shea Crum, Drake Hake and James McCabe.

Class 4A / North Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-6 2011-12 State Placing: 7th Coach: Kevin Brown (8th year) Assistants: Dave Sprague, Doug Thoman, Josh Brown Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – James McCabe, So. 145/152 – Drake Hake, So.; Hadrian Currier, Jr. 170 – Blaine Payeur, Sr. 182 – Shea Crum, So. 195 – Skyler Hittle, 2-time state qualifier, 3rd at state, Jr. 220 – Brentin Hake, state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Kyle Marks, Jr.; Zac Romo, Jr.

Melanie McGee

Eight state qualifiers are back on the Derby roster, and four of them placed at last year’s state tournament.

The Panthers will be led by seniors Chandler Ayer, Ben Becker, Jeff Morrow, Jose Santillan and Jarrod Suppes. Becker was second at last year’s state tournament while Morrow finished fourth and Ayer took fifth.

Sophomore Cody McDonald placed third last year while Santillan, Suppes and jun - ior Matt Kissinger also qualified for state.

A year ago, Derby went 10-2 in duals.

Class 6A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-2 2011-12 State Placing: 4th Coach: Bill Ross (12th year) Assistants: Mike Phillips, Kelly Heincker, Eddie Woody Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Jeff Morrow, 4th at state, Sr. 120 – Cody McDonald, 3rd at state, So. 138 – Caleb Gash, state qualifier, So. 145 – Jarrod Suppes, state qualifier, Sr. 152 – Chandler Ayer, 5th at state, Sr. 160 – Ben Becker, 2nd at state, Sr. 170 – Jose Santillan, state qualifier, Sr. 220 – Matt Kissinger, state qualifier, Jr.

Melanie McGee

Cherryvale brings back four state quali - fiers and 14 total wrestlers with varsity experience, giving the Chargers a deep and experienced squad this year.

“I feel we have a good group of guys this year,” coach James Renfro said. “We have a lot of upperclassmen who will be pushed by some underclassmen.”

Senior Curtis Hodges, junior Kaden Housel and sophomore DJ Cook all com - peted at the 2012 state tournament, while senior Dusty Cook qualified as a sopho - more.

Seniors Alex Haslett, Neal Higginbotham and Billy Mersereau also return to the Charger varsity, along with juniors Tanis Cook, Chase Davidson, Reid Hugo, Derek Huschka and Preston Rash. Sophomore Andrew Wright also has var - sity experience.

“I think if we can stay healthy and make sacrifices for the good of the team, this could be one of the more successful sea - sons in the short history of CHS wres - tling,” said Renfro.

Class 3-2-1A / Tri-Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-6 2011-12 State Placing: 48th Coach: James Renfro (9th year) Assistant: Spencer McGlothlin Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Andrew Wright, So. 120 – DJ Cook, state qualifier, So. 132 –Tanis Cook, Jr. 138 – Chase Davidson, Jr. 145 – Derek Huschka, Jr. 152 – Reid Hugo, Jr. 160 – Alex Haslett, Sr. 170 – Dusty Cook, 2010 state qualifier, Sr.; Cameron English, Sr. 182 – Curtis Hodges, state qualifier, Sr.; Kaden Housel, state qualifier, Jr. 195 – Preston Rash, Jr. 220 – Neal Higginbotham, Sr. 285 – Billy Mersereau, Sr.

Melanie McGee

CHERRYVALE CHARGERS

Colby nearly won its third state title since 2000 when it finished second in Class 4A last season with 96.5 points, just 2.5 points behind state champion Andale. Colby won state titles in 2001 and ’09.

Coach Matt Sims brings back a quality team this year, including eight state quali - fiers, three state placers and a state cham - pion in senior Dustin Reed, expected to compete at 126 pounds.

“We are returning a good number of wrestlers from last year’s team,” Sims said. “This year, we will need a lot of guys to step up and improve on their accomplishments from last year. We are very excited about the season and look for a lot of young wrestlers to make a suc - cessful transition from JV to the varsity starting lineup.”

It marks the most returning qualifiers/ - placers Sims has had in his time at Colby.

“This group of returning wrestlers worked hard last season to get to where they are now,” Sims said. “They will have to work equally as hard this season to improve and become better by the season’s end.”

Class 4A / Greater West Activities Conference 2011-2012 Dual Record: 23-1 2011-2012 State Placing: 2nd Coach: Matt Sims (10 years, 6th as head coach) Assistants: Ed Schmitt, Rick Williams Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – David Mainus, 6th at state, Jr. 126 – Dustin Reed, state champion, Sr. 138 – Macon Shull, state qualifier, Sr. 160 – Quade Woofter, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Andrew Taylor, state qualifier, Jr. 182 – Beau Brown, state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Troy Quenzer, state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Zell Bieberle, 6th at state, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

COLBY EAGLES

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Lars Lueders has turned around the Dodge City wrestling program and made it one of Class 6A’s best. In the three years before Lueders – a former University of Northern Colorado wrestler – took over, Dodge City scored 22, 49 and 54 points at the state meet.

In 2009, Lueders earned Regional Coach of the Year and led Dodge City to 66 state points and a 10th place finish. The last three years, Dodge City has scored 90, 78 and 68 points and finished fifth, ninth and ninth at state. This winter, Dodge City is expected to have another strong team. Lueders believes the senior class could lead to the most state qualifiers Dodge City has “seen in a long time.”

Senior Dane Edwards is a two-time state placer, while junior Chance Maynard earned a state medal last year. Maynard is ranked No. 1 in the preseason, while Edwards is ranked third.

“We have continued to have increased buy-in from our wrestlers as the seasons go by,” Lueders said. “We should have increased depth from last year. We will also have a competitive freshman class. Dane Edwards and Santiago Garcia will provide great leadership for our younger wrestlers.”

Class 6A / Western Athletic Conference 2011-12 Dual Record: 2-4 2011-12 State Placing: 9th Coach: Lars Lueders (5th year) Assistants: Tate Lowe, Dustin Fergerson, Daniel Yoder Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Chance Maynard, 6th at state, Jr. 113 – Jaden McRoberts, So. 120 – Jaquan Graves, Jr. 138 – Dane Edwards, 2-time state placer (6th, 3rd), Sr. 145 – David Forrester, Sr 145 – Santiago Garcia, Sr 152 – Jhett Ostrom, So. 160 – Corey Keller, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

DODGE CITY RED DEMONS

The last two years, Ellis has qualified just two wrestlers to state in Riley Hunsicker and Gage Younger. However, both have placed each season.

Last year, Hunsicker won the state cham - pionship at 170 pounds and Younger was fifth at 145 pounds. This winter, Hunsicker is gone to graduation after three state medals and one of the best careers in Railer wrestling history.

Younger finished fourth at 130 pounds as a sophomore and could match Hunsicker’s feat of three state medals this winter.

Ellis will have low numbers, but plenty of wrestlers who could contend for state qualification, including Jared Pfeifer, Landon Younger and Skyler Tebo.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League Coach: Casey Dinkel Assistants: Brandon Pfeifer 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Finish: 20th Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – Jared Pfeifer, 16-7, So. 145 – Gage Younger, 2-time state placer, 19- 3, Jr. 152 – Landon Younger, 13-10, So. 170 – Allen Augustine, 2-5, So. 220 – Skyler Tebo, 11-11, Jr.

Conor Nicholl

ELLIS RAILROADERS

Ellis’ GAGE YOUNGER


Ellsworth returns six varsity wrestlers including one state medalist, and the Bearcats expect to be an improved tour - nament team this season.

Junior Ty Nienke begins the season ranked second at 106 pounds after claim - ing the silver medal at last year’s state tournament, and he’ll be aiming to bring home a championship this season.

He is the Bearcats’ only ranked wrestler and their only returning state qualifier, though Ellsworth does bring back five other varsity athletes.

“Our team is growing. We are still young and are looking forward to good years to come,” coach Clint Freeman said. “We have a solid core of returners and we should compete well at tournaments this year.”

Marshall Barkow, Liam Eck, Zack Martin, Tristan Ptacek and Mo Rojas all bring varsity experience to the Bearcat lineup.

Class 3A / North Central Activities Association 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Finish: 23rd Coach: Clint Freeman (8th year) Assistants: Clint Donley, Steve Thorburn Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Ty Nienke, 2nd at state, Jr. 132 – Marshall Barkow 138 – Zack Martin 145 – Mo Rojas 152 – Tristan Ptacek 170 – Liam Eck

Melanie McGee

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS


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Improvement is once again the goal for Eisenhower as the program enters its sec - ond year of wrestling.

Eight varsity wrestlers are back in the Tiger lineup, and coach Enrique Espinoza likes what he sees so far.

“We have a small group of experienced wrestlers as well as several underclass - men with great potential,” he said. “Our goal is to see our wrestlers improve by postseason. We are looking forward to continuing our progress from last year.”

Seniors Heath Perez (170 pounds) and William Kurth (195) are joined by jun - iors Logan Cressler, Lucas Crump, KC Lindsey, Ryan Shay and Stephen Verbeck as well as sophomore Jake Jenkins. Those eight will be expected to lead the Tigers, who placed 21st at state last year but went 0-6 in duals.

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 0-6 2011-12 State Placing: 21st Coach: Enrique Espinoza (2nd year) Assistants: John Buckendorf, Eli Schmidt Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – KC Lindsey, Jr. 126 – Lucas Crump, Jr. 132 – Logan Cressler, Jr. 138 – Stephen Verbeck, Jr. 152 – Jake Jenkins, So. 170 – Heath Perez, Sr. 182 – Ryan Shay, Jr. 195 – William Kurth, Sr.

Melanie McGee

GODDARD-EISENHOWER TIGERS

Garden City has long enjoyed a success - ful wrestling program with state cham - pionships in 1971, 1990-93, 1998 and 1999. From 2006-12, the Buffs have fin - ished in the top-eight in Class 6A every year, including a third-place finish in 2007.

This season, former assistant coach Carlos Prieto takes over the program. Prieto served as an assistant under Martin Segovia, now the Buffs’ athletic director and then with Monte Moser, who retired after five seasons. Prieto’s hiring keeps the program with another coach who knows the Buffs’ tradition well.

Segovia, a Garden City graduate, inher - ited the program from Rocky Welton, who retired after he won the 1999 Class 6A state title. Moser had been involved in the GC wrestling program since 1982 before his retirement. Prieto graduated from Scott City before he served as an assistant coach at Ulysses from 1998-01 and then the head coach from 01-05. In 2006, he became an assistant at Garden City. In 2008-09, he was the head coach at Holcomb before he came back to Garden City.

Last year’s team finished eighth despite several injuries and some wrestlers not making weight. Senior A.J. Hurtado returns after he won the state champion - ship at 132 pounds last year.

“My expectations are the same as other coaches, to win a state championship,” Prieto said. “It’s been since the great Rocky Welton that Garden City has won a state championship and I would like to change that. Our team will be competitive and I truly believe we will be right there in the title hunt once the state tournament rolls around.”

Class 6A / WAC 2011-2012 Dual Record: 12-6 2011-2012 State Placing: 8th Coach: Carlos Prieto (7th overall, 1st as head coach) Assistants: Paul Lappin, Jacob Waller, Kevin Perez Returning Weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Efren Sanchez, So. 132 – Tevin Briscoe, So. 138 – A.J. Hurtado, state champion, Sr. 145 – Trevor Kennedy, Sr. 152 – Chris Adler, Jr. 160 – Zac Finch, So. 170 – Anthony Gardner, 5th place at state, Sr. 182 – Juan Carlos Rodriguez, state qualifier 195 – Samuel Reyes, state qualifier

Conor Nicholl

State qualifiers Easton Sommer and Cody Smallwood are the most experienced members of Mission Valley’s squad, though the Vikings should also see good things from other upperclassmen and a large group of freshmen.

“Easton Sommer is expected to have another quality season in his fourth year at the same weight,” coach Mike Otto said. “Joe Gleason and Gage Mickey were one match away from qualifying for state.”

Derrick Atwood and Will Binkley are also back in the varsity lineup. Mission Valley’s squad did take a hit during foot - ball season when 170-pounder Jon Higginbotham sustained a knee injury that will keep him out the entire wrestling season.

“We have a good nucleus returning,” Otto said. “They should have a good season and be good leaders for the large group of freshmen that is expected to join the squad.”

Class 3-2-1A / Flint Hills League 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-8 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Mike Otto (5th year) Assistants: Nathan Thyfault, Lonnie Morris Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Will Binkley 126 – Joe Gleason 145 – Derrick Atwood 182 – Easton Sommer, state qualifier 195 – Cody Smallwood, state qualifier 220 – Gage Mickey

Melanie McGee

ESKRIDGE-MISSION VALLEY VIKINGS

Fredonia returns a solid core of wrestlers led by two-time state champion Brogan Humphrey and two-time state qualifier Luke Plummer. Seniors Anthony Gonzales and Braden Sherman, junior Devin Howard and sophomores Sam Aylor and Gavin Burgess are also back in the lineup.

Humphrey went 43-1 on his way to the 132-pound title as a sophomore, while Plummer compiled a 35-9 record prior to the state tournament.

“Brogan has continued to improve over the summer and should be fun to watch this winter as he chases another state title,” first-year coach Jordan Stewart said. “Luke had a disappointing end to last season with surgery taking the place of going to the state tourney. He should be ready to make a statement as a junior this year.”

Fredonia’s lineup will be completed with a number of varsity newcomers, but Stewart expects his team to improve on last year’s 30th place finish at state.

“We look to continue to improve on last year’s success and make a statement in Hays this year as a team,” he said. “It’s time for our young guys to step up if we are going to be successful this year.”

Class 3-2-1A / Tri-Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: 13-7 2011-12 State Placing: 30th Coach: Jordan Stewart (1st year) Assistant: Charl Hill Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Gavin Burgess, So. 113 – Sam Aylor, So. 145 – Brogan Humphrey, 2-time state cham - pion, Jr. 160 – Braden Sherman, Sr. 182 – Luke Plummer, 2-time state qualifier, Jr. 220 – Anthony Gonzales, Sr. 285 – Devin Howard, Jr.

Melanie McGee

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Veteran coach Joe Sramek has continued Goodland’s strong wrestling tradition. The Cowboys have won multiple state titles, including two in 1997 and 2000. In the last seven years, the Cowboys have finished between fourth and 12th six times. They took fourth in 2008 in Class 4A and fourth in 2009 and last winter in Class 3-2-1A.

After four seasons in Class 3-2-1A, Goodland moves back up to Class 4A this winter. The Cowboys graduated two state runner-ups in Laine Herl and Riley Oharah, who took second at 195 and 220 pounds and combined for a 78-4 record. The Cowboys return one state placer in junior John Peden, who finished sixth at 152 pounds.

“We are going to be a young, inexperi - enced team that will look to improve as the season goes along,” Sramek said. “It will be a big challenge returning to the 4A classification. Our seniors do not have much varsity experience, but I think they will step right in and be good contributors to our team.”

Class 4A / Greater West Activities Conference 2011-2012 Dual Record: 20-6 2011-2012 State Placing: 4th Coach: Joseph Sramek (7th year) Assistants: Jon Whisnant and Steve Evert Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Aaron Avelar, 26-16, So. 120 – Josh David, 5-14, So. 126 – Coy Johnson, 19-16, So. 132 – Brook Bahe, 7-12, Jr. 138 – Rickey Milke, 5-5, So. 138 – James Dinkel, 9-22, So. 145 – Jedd Gray, 11-16, Sr. 152 – John Peden, 32-14, 6th at state, Jr. 152 – Jeff House, 10-7, Sr. 160 – Josh Whisnant, 19-4, Sr. 160 – Brandon Verlinden, 2-6, So. 160 – Cody Hooker, 1-17, Jr. 170/182 – Colton Cooper, 20-18, Jr. 170/182 – Ian Bonsall, Jr. 195 – Tyler Gastineau, 34-11, state qualifier, Jr. Conor Nicholl

GOODLAND COWBOYS

Goodland’s JOHN PEDEN


Hays’ PRESTON WEIGEL

Photo by Steven Hausler, Hays Daily News


Junior Preston Wiegel is likely going to be one of – if not the best – wrestler in Hays High history. Wiegel finished sec - ond as a freshman and won a state cham - pionship last winter when he finished 39- 1 at 170 pounds.

“What an amazing season he had, just was pretty phenomenal,” coach John Hafliger said.

He was also named Western Athletic Conference Wrestler of the Year and coach Hafliger collected conference coach of the year honors.

“It is a reflection of what the kids did,” Hafliger said. “It’s kind of humbling to have the other coaches name me as the WAC coach.”

Senior Leroy Franco returns after he qualified for state at 145 pounds. Senior Chandler Rule is back after he was a first team all-WAC performer last season. Rule broke his leg in summer baseball, but came back for the end of football sea - son.

Sophomore Ethan Deterding (31-16) was sixth at state last season at 152 pounds.

“That’s amazing for a freshman at that weight class,” Hafliger said.

Senior Kyler Meyers is back after he took sixth at 160 pounds.

Hays High did graduate several talented wrestlers, including Derek Stiles, the fifth-place finisher at 126 pounds; Cash Drylie, who finished 38-3 and state runner-up; and Luke Madden, who quali - fied at 285 pounds.

Class 5A / Western Athletic Conference 2011-2012 Dual Record: N/A 2011-2012 State Placing: 9th Coach: John Hafliger Assistants: Josh Pfannenstiel, Tommy Edgmon, Heath Meder

Conor Nicholl

HAYS INDIANS

Four wrestlers with state tournament experience are back in the Southeast of Saline lineup, and first-year coach Eric Deneault expects several others to step into the varsity lineup and make an imme - diate impact.

“I believe we have a solid lineup of wres - tlers returning,” he said. It is hard to replace individuals like Brock Long and Kyler Besher, who we counted on being in the finals each week. However, with that being said, I believe we have many juniors and seniors ready to step up and fill that void.”

Junior Nick Wuthnow, a Salina Sacred Heart wrestler in the postseason, is com - ing off a runner-up finish at the state tour - nament and he’ll be looking to make his third state medal a gold this season.

Senior Cory Knight and junior Jim Weller also qualified for state last year, while junior Keith Short competed at the 2011 state tournament. Those three are all look - ing for their first trip to the podium in Hays.

“We have a few individuals whose expec - tations of returning to state remain high after heart breaking finishes last year,” Deneault said. “Cory Knight and Zach Turner look to take on the responsibilities of team captains/leaders as our top return - ing seniors. Jim Weller, Keith Short, and Nick Wuthnow will boost our junior class with their experience and will to win. These individuals look to improve upon last year’s performances in a big way.”

Class 3A / North Central Activities Association 2011-2012 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Eric Deneault (1st year) Assistant: Braden Long Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Jim Weller, state qualifier, Jr. 132 – Cory Knight, state qualifier, Sr. 160 – Keith Short, 2011 state qualifier, Jr. 170 – Nick Wuthnow, 2nd at state, 2-time state placer, Jr. Melanie McGee

GYPSUM-SE OF SALINE TROJANS

Southeast’s CORY KNIGHT

Veteran assistant coach Josh Peterson takes over the Monarch wrestling pro - gram this winter from Mike Howell. Peterson marks the fourth head wrestling coach for the Monarchs since the 2007-08 season, joining Brandon Pfeifer, Eric Johnson and Howell.

The Monarchs graduated four-time state champion Dylan Schumacher, who is now wrestling at the University of Wyoming. As well, Scott Heimann, who went 25-14 and 2-2 at state, also gradu - ated. The Monarchs are expected to have 14 wrestlers, including four seniors: Parker Goldsberry, Jonathan and Lucas Walker and Austin Werth. Jonathan Walker qualified for state as a freshman at 103 pounds.

Derek Schumacher, Dylan’s oldest brother, a former wrestler and an influ - ential part of his brother’s career, joins the Monarchs as a first-year assistant coach.

This season marks TMP’s final year in the MCAA with Hoisington, Larned and Ellinwood. Next year, the Monarchs join the tradition-laden Mid-Continent League.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Central Activities Association 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: T24th Coach: Josh Peterson (1st year) Assistants: Derek Schumacher, Roman Padilla

Conor Nicholl

HAYS-TMP-MARIAN MONARCHS

Thomas More Prep’s LUCAS WALKER

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Hoisington, who finished second last year in Class 3-2-1A, returns most of the wres - tlers that helped earn the runner-up plaque, and is the preseason favorite to capture a state title this winter. All nine wrestlers who reached the state tour - nament last year won a match. Hoisington had the highest wrestling finish in school history, beating the seventh place show - ing in 1997-98 and 08-09.

“Expectations are to have another good year,” coach Dan Schmidt said. “Some outstanding talent returns.”

Hoisington graduated four state qualifiers, including one state placer. Five state qualifiers return, including state cham - pion Brandon Ball and Chance Demel, who finished in third place at state. Ball became the first ever sophomore to win a state title in Hoisington history, according to Schmidt’s records. Several other Cardinals are expected to step up into var - sity roles this winter for a team that also went 12-1 in the dual season with the only loss coming to Lindsborg-Smoky Valley (38-31).

“Several outstanding wrestlers also return that were on varsity at times last year, but lost close challenges to state qualifiers keeping them from wrestling in the postseason,” Schmidt said. “Some good, athletic talent will join the team from the junior high program as three solid fresh - men should challenge for varsity spots. The team has their goal set to win a state championship, but knows that will not necessarily be an easy task.”

Schmidt said several wrestlers will have to step up if the Cardinals are to accom - plish their goal.

“If the Cards are to be successful, they will have to find a way to win state matches with kids that are not necessarily state placers,” Schmidt said.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Central Activities Association 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-1 2011-12 State Placing: 2nd Coach: Dan Schmidt (5th year at Hoisington) Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Landon Harmon, 6-23, So., 120 – Brandon Ball, state champion, 37-2, Jr. 132 – Bryce Boxberger, 16-14, Sr., 138 – Zach Sanders, state qualifier, 27-8, Jr. 145 – Chance Demel, third place at state, 37- 4, Jr. 152 – Matt Manka, state qualifier, 34-8, Sr. 160 – Dylan Bell,18-14, Jr. 170 – Hagen Hanzlick, state qualifier, 27-10, Jr. 195 – Cayton Janousek, 34-7, Jr.

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HOISINGTON CARDINALS

The Railers welcome a new head coach in Nathan Lawrenz who was expecting three state qualifiers back in the wrestling room this season.

Senior Daniel Melcher should be back after finishing fifth place at 126 last sea - son with a 29-6 record. Melcher beat Atchison County’s Justin Wagner by fall to earn fifth place.

Fellow senior Kaleb Gillis qualified for the state tournament last year as a junior and fell in heartbreaking fashion with a 4- 3 loss to Alma-Wabaunsee’s TJ Setter in consolation bracket of the 160 pound weight class. Gillis finished with a 23-19 record.

Lawrenz also hopes for big things from junior Trever Melcher who qualified for state in 2011 but missed the state tour - nament last year with a 14-7 record.

Other potential returners for the Railers include senior Taylor Nuss who wrestled at 145 in the past and junior Ty Morris who competed at 170 pounds.

Class 3-2-1A / Flint Hills 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 44th Coach: Nathan Lawrenz Assistants: N/A Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – Daniel Melcher, 3-time state qualifier, 5th at state, 29-6, Sr. 132 – Trever Melcher, state qualifier in 2011, 14-7, Jr. 160 – Kaleb Gillis, state qualifier, 23-19, Sr.

John Baetz

HERINGTON RAILERS

Two years ago, Hill City qualified one wrestler to state in Nathan Hanna, who earned a state medal. Last year, the Ringnecks didn’t qualify any wrestlers to state.

This season, senior Gage Pfeifer, who has started on varsity for a couple of years, is expected to qualify for state and possibly contend for a state medal. Pfeifer has wrestled at the lower weights throughout his career.

Like many northwest Kansas teams, Hill City will again fight low numbers in the room and should have fewer than a dozen kids out for wrestling.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: Did Not Qualify Coach: Steve Nickelson Assistants: Vince Walker

Conor Nicholl

HILL CITY RINGNECKS

The Trojans will be young this season, but coach Scott O’Hare said his team should be athletic and coachable.

“We are going to be a fairly young team with only two returning seniors and two returning juniors on the roster,” he said. “I am anticipating that they will be very coachable and willing to work hard to improve quickly.”

Seniors Tanner Jones and Tyrell Theissen both qualified for the state tournament last year, and they’ll be expected to pro - vide leadership this season.

“We will get some nice leadership from those two seniors as both are returning state qualifiers and have the potential to be very successful this season,” O’Hare said. “I expect these two seniors and the returning juniors to provide great lead - ership and encouragement to the young guys throughout the season.”

Juniors River Cecil and Cody Delk are back in the varsity lineup along with sophomores Jon Carey and Jesse Meier. All four took some lumps a year ago but should be much improved this season.

Class 3-2-1A / Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 2-12 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Scott O’Hare (10th year) Assistant: Jake Schenk Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113/120 – Jon Carey, 5-21, So. 132/138 – River Cecil, 3-20, Jr. 138/145 – Cody Delk, 16-15, Jr. 152/160 – Jesse Meier, 5-21, So. 160/170 – Tanner Jones, 31-15, state quali - fier, Sr. 285 – Tyrell Thiessen, 15-7, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

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Six seniors including two-time regional champion Tanner Ogden return to lead Royal Valley this season. First-year coach Jason Puderbaugh is excited about the upcoming season as his team also includes junior Austin Ashley, a state qualifier last year, and three other wres - tlers who nearly qualified for the state tournament.

“Our team has a lot of experienced sen - iors returning, a state qualifier, and a state placer,” Puderbaugh said. “We also have several that have goals of becoming state placers in 2013.”

Ogden placed third at last year’s state tournament and is joined by classmates Michael Bailey, Zach Johnson, Christian Matthews, Tristen Matthews and Wes McClane as the team’s veteran leaders.

“Our five seniors are looking to lead the Panthers to another successful winning dual record season, and a higher team state placing by obtaining highly set goals individually to finish out their Royal Valley Wrestling careers,” Puderbaugh said.

Royal Valley also returns juniors Bryce Golightley and Pallas Tye and sophomore Chance Ogden to the varsity squad.

Class 4A / Big 8 League 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-7 2011-12 State Placing: 27th Coach: Jason Puderbaugh (1st year) Assistants: Jaime Hamilton, Doug Spencer, Jason Mellies Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Austin Ashley, state qualifier, Jr. 120 – Zach Johnson, Sr. 126 – Pallas Tye, Jr. 138 – Michael Bailey, Sr. 145 – Bryce Golightley, Jr. 152 – Tanner Ogden, 3rd at state, Sr. 160 – Christian Matthews, Sr. 170 – Chance Ogden, So. 182 – Tristen Matthews, 21-7, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Just two state qualifiers are back at Hutchinson, and coach Mike Garcia says his team will lean on wrestlers moving up from the junior varsity ranks.

“This year’s team returns very little var - sity experience,” Garcia said. “We will need to rely heavily on last year’s junior varsity wrestlers.”

State qualifiers Dominique Hoover and Lex Plummer are among the few veterans on this year’s Salthawk squad. Hoover went 17-23 while Plummer compiled a 14-19 record a year ago.

Senior heavyweight Marc Saffle is back after missing the 2012 season with an injury, and five others return with varsity experience. Senior Chris Starks and jun - iors Trey Barton, Darryon Cushinberry, Gilbert Galindo and Dalton Luce will all look to build on last year’s varsity expe - rience, when the Salthawks went 8-7 in duals.

Class 6A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 8-7 2011-12 State Placing: 7th Coach: Mike Garcia (18th year) Assistants: Josh Leatherbury, Joel Thompson Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 130 – Gilbert Galindo, 9-3, Jr. 160 – Darryon Cushinberry, 7-21, Jr. 182 – Dominique Hoover, 17-23, state quali - fier, Sr. 195 – Dalton Luce, 5-8, Jr.; Chris Starks, 4- 20, Sr. 220 – Lex Plummer, 14-19, state qualifier, Jr. 285 – Marc Saffle, 11-12 in 2011, Sr.; Trey Barton, 4-14, Jr.

Melanie McGee

First-year coach Justin Stevens inherits an experienced group headlined by senior Keegan Amos, who took third at 113 pounds last winter. It marked Amos’ first state medal of his career.

“He will be looking to end his high school career at the top of his weight class,” Stevens said. “We have a few other seniors and some underclassmen who will be looking to make an impact and bring home hardware from the state tournament.”

Including Amos, Holcomb is expected to have five returning seniors in the starting lineup. Last year, Holcomb scored 16 points at state. From 2006-11, Holcomb had 0, 0, 1,1, 5 and 0 points at the state meet with zero state placers.

“I am excited about the mix of expe - rienced and young wrestlers we have out,” Stevens said. “I look forward to working with these talented athletes as we build up our program in Holcomb.”

Class 3-2-1A / Greater West Activities Conference 2011-2012 Dual Record: N/A 2011-2012 State Placing: 42nd Coach: Justin Stevens (1st year) Assistants: Jim Krohn Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Jesus Macias, Sr. 126 – Keegan Amos, 3rd at state, Sr. 132 – Jared Medina, So. 138 – Misael Banderas, Sr. 145 – Garret Janda, So. 152 – Eric Eisenbise, So. 195 – Eli Mangels, Sr. 220 – Luis Medina, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

HOLCOMB LONGHORNS

Hoxie is arguably the best Class 3-2-1A wrestling program in Kansas history with 10 state championships. The Indians last won titles in 2002 and ‘03 before they experienced a few down years. Now, coach Mike Porsch, a Hoxie graduate and longtime assistant who has taken over as head coach in the last couple of years, has helped restore the program.

In the last three years, Hoxie has finished fifth, second and third. Three years ago, the Indians scored 59.5 points, while two seasons ago, Hoxie had 97 points – but finished well behind state champion Norton’s 131.5.

Last winter, Hoxie finished at 77.5, a half-point behind Hoisington for second place and close to champion Scott City (93.5). Hoxie qualified six wrestlers for state and suffered some unexpected Day 1 losses at the state meet.

This season, the Indians are again expected to have low numbers – but plenty of talent. Senior Calvin Ochs has finished second, second and first in his three seasons. Ochs wrestles basically year-round and has competed in multiple national competitions. The Indians return three other state qualifiers and two state placers. Brady Bainter is also back after he missed much of last season with an injury.

“We return a lot of seniors who have been on varsity since they were freshmen, so we hope to use their experience to com - pete well throughout the season,” Porsch said. “We could be short on numbers to fill all the weight classes, but I believe we will compete well where we can put wres - tlers on the mat.”

Class 3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-2012 Dual Record: 9-7 2011-2012 State Placing: 3rd Coach: Mike Porsch (18th year) Assistants: Mat Gilliland Returning weights: (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Tristan Storer, So. 126 – Mat Heim, Sr. 138 – Weston Bainter, Sr. 152 – Phillip Cater, Sr. 160 – Calvin Ochs, state champion, Sr. 170 – Steven Yergey-Dible, 4th at state, Sr. 170 – Brady Bainter, Sr. 182 – Brandon Salmans, 5th at state, Sr. 195 – Kane Washington, state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Mark Schippers, So.

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Nathan Smith is a Smith Center graduate and a former Redmen assistant coach who helped Smith Center win three straight Class 3-2-1A state championships. He earned Class 3-2-1A assistant coach of the year and then went to St. Francis, a wrestling powerhouse dating back to the ‘30s.

Smith served as head football and wres - tling coach for three years before he resigned in the summer. Smith has now taken over at Lakin, a program that has never won a state wrestling championship (St. Francis has won 15). Last year, Lakin had one wrestler qualify for the state meet. St. Francis had five, but didn’t place any for the first time in 76 years.

Montana Fuller qualified as a sophomore at 285 pounds and finished 2-2.

“Early indications show we’ll have good numbers participating,” Smith said. “We return some experience from last year’s squad and have some coming back out that have wrestled in the past. With what looks like only two seniors coming out, we will be young, but I expect to be com - petitive when we get to the championship series (league, regional and state).”

Class 3-2-1A / Hi-Plains League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Nathan Smith (4th overall, 1st at Lakin) Assistants: N/A

Conor Nicholl

LAKIN BRONCS

A pair of state champions are back to defend their titles and help the Junction City Bluejays improve on last year’s 10th place team finish.

Senior Kevin Perez will look for back-to- back titles at 120 pounds while junior Andrew Millsap, also a 2012 state cham - pion, will wrestle at 145 this season.

Seniors Jaylen Padilla, Aaron Rafalko and Ezio Voeghetty also have state tour - nament experience for Junction City.

“We have a great deal of experience and the future looks bright,” coach Robert Laster said. “We look for some great leadership from our seniors and returning lettermen.”

Junior Micah Felton and sophomore Jake Bazan are also coming off trips to the state tournament, and sophomore Jeryl Denton is also a returning varsity wres - tler.

Class 6A / Centennial League 2011-12 Dual Record: 9-1 2011-12 State Placing: 10th Coach: Robert Laster (29th year) Assistants: Rick Bazan, Chris Stevens, Lance Maldonado Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Kevin Perez, state champion, Sr. 126 – Jake Bazan, state qualifier, So. 145 – Andrew Millsap, state champion, Jr. 152 – Jeryl Denton, So. 160 – Ezio Voeghtty, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Micah Felton, state qualifier, Jr. 182 – Jaylen Padilla, state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Aaron Ralfako, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

JUNCTION CITY BLUE JAYS

Six juniors with varsity experience are back for Sumner, which is looking to improve on a 3-1 dual record from last season.

Dante Boose is the lone state qualifier, though Kossivi Esse is also primed for a big season.

“Dante and Kossivi are captains, and they both are looking to place at state,” said coach Frank Gonzales.

Juniors Jordan Callier, Sean Finley, Phillip Morris, John Perez and William Whitworth also return to the Braves’ var - sity lineup.

“We have no returning seniors, but we have two accomplished juniors that are looking to win state,” Gonzales said. “We lost two key state placers, but still have a very experienced team.”

Class 4A / Kansas City Atchison League 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-1 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Frank Gonzales (5th year) Assistants: Anthony Lopez, Doug Spangler Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Dante Boose, state qualifier, Jr. 126 – Phillip Morris, Jr. 126/132 – Sean Finley, Jr. 132 – William Whitworth, Jr. 138 – Kossivi Esse, Jr. 152 – Jordan Callier, Jr. 195/220 – John Perez, Jr.

Melanie McGee

K.C.-SUMNER ACADEMY SABRES

Jason Dolezal knows that year one of his coaching career at Wyandotte won’t be easy with just one returning wrestler, but he is looking forward to the season.

“This season will be a building year, but we plan on competing and embracing the grind to get better,” Dolezal said. “It will be a great indicator of where we will go as a program.”

Gyheth Fahdil returns to the lineup at 220 pounds after qualifying for state a year ago, but the rest of the Wyandotte lineup will be new to the varsity.

“Gyheth will have a great chance to improve on his success last year. As a state qualifier last year he has plans to get a medal this year,” Dolezal said. “There will be a few wildcards that may show they can deliver. We’ll see who steps up.”

Class 5A / Kansas City Atchison League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Jason Dolezal (1st year) Assistant: Eugene Rodriguez Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 220 – Gyheth Fahdil, state qualifier

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State champion Reese Cokeley and runner-up Trent Salsbury are back to lead St. James Academy this season. The Thunder also return state qualifiers Darin Feist, David Feist, Zak Hensley, Andy Muehlberger, Matt Pratt, Andrew Tujague and Ben VanLerberg.

St. James has a challenging schedule that includes teams from Colorado, Iowa, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

“This year’s schedule is very demanding and should help the team get ready for the state series,” coach Mike Medina said. “Our schedule sets the team up for what it takes to be a champion. Wrestling against Kansas’s best teams along with all the different teams that we’ll see at the Kansas City Classic should prepare the team for what it takes to achieve their goals.”

The Thunder placed 11th at state last year and one of their main goals is to bring home a state trophy in 2013.

“The team has worked very hard during the offseason and they have set a team goal to bring home their first team trophy from state,” Medina said.

Class 6A / Independent 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-3 2011-12 State Placing: 11th Coach: Mike Medina (8th year) Assistants: Colin McKee, Jason Moshier, Nick Clayton, Jimmy Muehlberger Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Reese Cokeley, state champion, Jr. 126 – Zak Hensley, state qualifier, So. 132 – Andrew Tujague, state qualifier, Jr. 145 – Ben VanLerberg, state qualifier, Jr. 152 – Matt Pratt, state qualifier, So. 170 – Trent Salsbury, state runner-up, Jr. 182 – Andy Muehlberger, state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Peter Coelho, Sr. 220 – David Feist, state qualifier, Jr. 285 – Darin Feist, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Ten wrestlers with significant varsity experience are back in the lineup at Lincoln, though not all of them will be in uniform to start the season.

“We have had some kids sustain some injuries during the football season which will leave us a bit shorthanded during the pre-Christmas portion of our schedule,” coach Nate Naasz said. “This could be a good opportunity for some of our younger kids to step up and shoulder some of the burden.”

Sylvan-Lucas Unified junior Fritz Berger is the only state qualifier returning to the lineup, though several Leopard wrestlers were close to qualifying last year.

Paul Barrientes (220-Sylvan-Lucas) and Austin Biggs (152) are the lone seniors returning with varsity experience, though five juniors and two sophomores are back in the varsity lineup this season.

“We have some really dynamic kids returning to our lineup and are really excited about our tournament team once we get everyone back into the lineup,” Naasz said. “If they work hard and push each other on a daily basis it could be one of the more successful teams we have put on the mat in recent years.”

Class 3A / Northern Plains League 2011-12 Dual Record: 2-4 2011-12 State Placing: 50th Coach: Nate Naasz (7th year) Assistant: John Gardner Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Rocky Krueger, So. 138 – Kyle Budreau, Jr. 145 – Kyle Cavalli, So. 152 – Austin Biggs, Sr. 160 – Nick Feldkamp, Jr.; Randall Martin, Jr. 182 – Joe Myers, Jr. 195 – Colton Panzer, Jr. 220 – Paul Barrientes, Sr. 285 – Fritz Berger, state qualifier, Jr.

Melanie McGee

After posting the best finish in school his - tory at last year’s state tournament, Lawrence is primed for another great sea - son.

State champion Hunter Haralson and state placers Andrew Denning, Garrett Girard, Caden Lynch and Tristan Star headline a lineup filled with returning wrestlers.

“The Lions will rely heavily on a junior and senior class that has been waiting in the wings for a chance on the mat,” coach Patrick Naughton said. “Andrew Denning and Ryan Bellinger return to the Chesty Lion lineup after season ending injuries a year ago. Denning and Bellinger are ready to help the Chesty Lions accom - plish the ultimate goal of winning a state title.”

The Lions also have seniors Akram Laytimi and Tim Thongone on the squad, and Naughton expects to see solid lead - ership from his five seniors.

“Xavier Kenny, Isaias Rojo, Akram Laytimi should be big contributors this year for the Chesty Lions,” Naughton said. “Leading the freshmen class for the Chesty Lions will be Alan Clothier. Alan has plans on fitting into the Chesty Lions varsity lineup and could turn a lot of heads as the season progresses.”

Class 6A / Sunflower League 2011-12 Dual Record: 8-2 2011-12 State Placing: 3rd Coach: Patrick Naughton (6th year) Assistants: Randy Streeter, Jason Maisog Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Tristan Star, 4th at state 120 – Garrett Girard, 6th at state 132 – Hunter Haralson, state champion, Sr. 145 – Caden Lynch, 5th at state, Sr. NA - Andrew Denning, 2010 state runner-up, Sr.; Ryan Walter, state qualifier; Ryan Bellinger, state qualifier; Alex Jones, state qualifier

Melanie McGee

LAWRENCE LIONS

Free State has no state qualifiers return - ing, but senior Ben Soukup is one of many Firebirds expected to make some noise this season.

“Ben has really worked hard this offsea - son and is looking forward to his senior year,” coach Mike Gillman said. “I antici - pate Ben making some noise at the state tournament this season.”

Soukup is expected to wrestle at 152 pounds for the Firebirds.

In addition to Soukup, Free State brings back Quailian Fowler at 106, Maurice Jacobs at 132, Colton Steele at 145, Stan Skwarlo at 160 and Sterling Ozark at heavyweight.

“We have many young kids that will make instant impacts in our varsity lineup,” Gillman said. “We have many kids competing for weight classes, which will make our team better overall. I am very excited for the upcoming season with our young kids.”

Class 6A / Sunflower League 2011-12 Dual Record: 0-2 2011-12 State Placing: 21st Coach: Mike Gillman (3rd year) Assistants: Josh Hansen, Brett Romme Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Quailan Fowler 132 – Maurice Jacobs 145 – Colton Steele 152 – Ben Soukup, Sr. 160 – Stan Skwarlo 285 – Sterling Ozark

Melanie McGee

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Coach Doug Kretzer has continued a solid run for the McPherson wrestling program, but will have a young squad this season. From 2006-11, McPherson scored between 47.5 and 62.5 points in every state tournament. Last year, the Bullpups tallied 79 points for a fifth-place finish in Class 4A. However, McPherson gradu - ated seven seniors, including four –time state placer Tim Prescott.

“We will need some wrestlers to step up this season,” Kretzer said. “We had a tre - mendous commitment in our offseason programs, so I expect us to wrestle tough every time we step on the mat.”

McPherson is expected to have big years from Kaden Kretzer and Travis Steenson.

“We return two state qualifiers who should have outstanding senior seasons,” Kretzer said.

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-2012 Dual Record: 4-4 2011-2012 State Placing: 5th Coach: Doug Kretzer (18th year, 2nd as head coach) Assistants: Scott Davis, Aaron Dibbens Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Kaden Kretzer, 5th at state 132 – Alex Boswell 138 – Ethan Fowler 145 – Jose Gloria 152 – Todd Graber 170 – Travis Stevenson, state qualifier

Conor Nicholl

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS

Smoky Valley coach Ben Elliott has high hopes for his team, which returns 13 var - sity wrestlers.

“We return the most experienced group in the history of our program,” Elliott said. “I look for good things from them.”

That experienced squad includes fourth- place finisher Trevor Whittaker and state qualifiers Brandon Archuleta, Spencer Bird, Austin Cook and Kyle Ryan.

Whittaker and Ryan are looking to cap their high school careers with state med - als and Bird, a junior, is seeking his first state medal. Archuleta and Cook both qualified as freshmen and will look to place higher as sophomores.

Smoky Valley also returns seniors Mason Kerns, Weston Loder and Kaden Sare.

“I am blessed with a great group of sen - iors,” Elliott said. “I look forward to the leadership they will give to the team.”

Class 4A / Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 15-3 2011-12 State Placing: 15th Coach: Ben Elliott (7th year) Assistants: Adam Lackey, Chris Hattabaugh Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Kaden Sare, Sr. 120 – Brandon Archuleta, state qualifier, So. 132 – Mason Kerns, Sr. 138 – Aaron Taylor, So. 152 – Austin Cook, state qualifier, So.; Kyle Ryan, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Spencer Bird, state qualifier, Jr. 182 – Trevor Whittaker, 4th at state, Sr. 195 – Weston Loder, Sr. 220 – Jared DeMott, So. 285 – Brix Brickey, So.

Melanie McGee

LINDSBORG-SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS

Three-time state qualifier Cullen Hood returns to lead the Wildcats in Bobby Bovaird’s second year at the helm.

“We’re building a new tradition at Louisburg,” Bovaird said. “Last year was a great place to begin, but the boys aren’t satisfied yet. They’re still working at improving their skills, getting stronger and getting faster.”

Hood placed fifth as a sophomore and narrowly missed a medal in Class 4A’s toughest weight class last season.

“Cullen had what could arguably be the toughest weight class at the state tour - nament last year,” Bovaird said. “Four wrestlers who had placed in 2011 went home without a state medal. He took the state champion to a one-point match in the quarterfinals.”

The Wildcats should also get a boost from seniors Curtis Lemke and Kyle McLellan.

“Curtis nearly qualified for state last year and Kyle won 25 matches but had to default out of regionals due to a concus - sion,” Bovaird said.

Class 4A / Frontier League 2011-12 Dual Record: 6-12 2011-12 State Placing: 20th Coach: Bobby Bovaird (2nd year) Assistants: Aaron Ziadeh, Robert Ebenstein Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Austin Huber, So. 126 – Zach Knox, So. 132 – Cullen Hood, 3-time state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Austen Scott, Sr. 145 – Ben Powers, Jr. 152 – Shea Cox, So. 220 – Kyle McLellan, Sr. 285 – Konnor Cook, Sr.

Melanie McGee

LOUISBURG WILDCATS

State medalists Jase Stone and Davis Matthews headline a Manhattan squad that returns nine varsity wrestlers to lead the Indians’ defense of their Class 6A state title.

Coach Robert Gonzales has a good feel - ing about his team, which will be led by six seniors.

“I feel that they will give the team posi - tive leadership and continue to lead by example in the mat room,” he said. “The boys have been working hard in the off - season and I look forward to great success with this class.”

Stone is a two-time runner-up looking for his first state title at 113 pounds while Matthews is coming off a fourth place finish last year.

Austin Chauncey, Michael Leeper, C.J. Mooreman-Meador and Dallas Vesta also have state tournament experience. Vesta, expected to wrestle at 126 this year, has two older brothers wrestling in college, while Mooreman-Meador returns to his true weight class of 220 after being the Indians’ heavyweight last year.

Gonzales also expects seniors Michael Forshee and Caleb Gorman to help sig - nificantly.

“Forshee broke his hand before Christmas last year,” he said. “Caleb may be a key for us this year. He was a talented club youth wrestler in the Kansas City area and I am glad he is on our team.”

Class 6A / Centennial League 2011-12 Dual Record: 18-1 2011-12 State Placing: 1st Coach: Robert M. Gonzales (8th year) Assistants: Devin Schwartz, Tim McCarthy, Chad Lindsley, Justin Greenmeyer, Hunter Like Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Jase Stone, 38-5, 2nd at state, Sr. 126 – Dallas Vesta, 30-15, state qualifier, Sr. 132 – Josh Mullin, 18-2, Sr. 138 – Austin Chauncey, 8-14, state qualifier, So. 145 – Davis Matthews, 37-13, 4th at state, Sr. 152 – Angel Foster, 4-2, So. 170 – Michael Forshee, 13-3, Sr.; Michael Leeper, 29-14, state qualifier, Jr. 220 – C.J. Mooreman-Meador, 25-15, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

MANHATTAN INDIANS

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Norton has long been one of Class 3-2- 1A’s top programs under veteran coach Bill Johnson. The Bluejays have won five state titles in the last nine years. However, after state crowns in 2010 and ’11, Johnson had his youngest team in two decades last winter and slipped back to 16th place at the state meet.

This winter, Norton looks to bounce back.

“The 2012-13 season looks to be much better for the Bluejays,” Johnson said. “Even though they return only two state placers, 11 varsity starters return. Look for the Bluejays to return to the top teams in the 3-2-1A class.”

Senior John Risewick leads the way after he finished first, second and third in his first three seasons. Junior Alec Hager joined the varsity for the first time last year and finished fourth at state. Junior Branson Addington has reached the state tournament as a freshman and sopho - more, but hasn’t earned a state medal. Junior Cole Renner was a surprise state qualifier last winter and went 2-2 at state.

“We look for good things out of him,” Johnson said.

Senior Jared Bohl won 30 matches and was fourth at the difficult Newton Tournament of Champions, but couldn’t reach state because of a difficult regional.

Senior Eli Bozarth missed last season because of a ACL injury. More than 30 Bluejays are expected to be in the room, but a weakness could come with numbers at the upper weights.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League Last year’s dual record: 9-6 Last year’s state finish: 16th place Coach: Bill Johnson (24th year) Assistants: Doug Ray, Shane Miller, Tony Fiscus Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 103 – Branson Addington, 2-time state quali - fier, 23-11, Jr. 113 – Ethan Ross, 12-19, Jr. 120 – John Risewick, 3-time state placer, 2010 state champion, 35-5, Sr. 126 – Alec Hager, 4th place last year, 20-10, Jr. 132 – Jared Tallent, 4-2, injured most of last year, So. 145 – Cody Ellis, 14-21, Sr. 145 – Eli Bozarth, 25-14 in 2011 (injured all of 2012), Sr. 152 – Jared Bohl, 30-11, Sr. 160 – Cole Renner, state qualifier, 9-11, Jr. 170 – Lucas Engel, 6-13, Sr. 215 – Kolton Harting, 12-14, Jr.

Conor Nicholl


NORTON BLUEJAYS

State qualifiers Isaac Kuder and Garrett Lott are back in the Minneapolis lineup, and the Lions also return four other sen - iors with varsity experience.

“We are a year older than last season and have some extra experience joining the team,” coach Jeff Giles said. “This should make for a nice season.”

Kuder is expected to wrestle at 132 while Lott lines up at 170 for the Lions.

Minneapolis also brings back seniors Colby Berry, Justin Klein, Jacob Stewart and Austin Werner. Juniors Jacob Griffith and Gideon Root and sophomores Colton Baker, Quentin Clark and Tanner Gremmel all gained varsity experience last year as well. Stewart and Werner will compete for Bennington at the regional and state levels, but they should help Minneapolis at regular season tour - naments.

Giles expects his team to get a boost from nine freshmen, particularly in the 106, 113 and 120 pound weight classes.

Class 3A / North Central Activities Association 2011-12 Dual Record: 7 - 11 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Jeff Giles (26th year) Assistants: Chas Hauck, Nick Johnson, Jerry Mick Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Gideon Root, Jr. 126 – Colton Baker, So. 132 – Isaac Kuder, state qualifier, Sr.; Austin Werner, Sr. 152 – Jacob Stewart, Sr.; Jacob Griffith, Jr. 160 – Justin Klein, Sr. 170 – Garrett Lott, state qualifier, Sr. 182 – Colby Berry, Sr. 195 – Quentin Clark, So. 285 – Tanner Gremmel, So.

Melanie McGee

MINNEAPOLIS LIONS

MOUND CITY-JAYHAWK LINN JAYHAWKS

Just four wrestlers return for Jayhawk- Linn, but those four appear poised for big seasons.

“We will be low on numbers but our four returners have put their time in the last couple of years,” coach Brett Kramer said. “We should be ready for a big year for those returning wrestlers.”

Sophomore Tommy Avery went 25-15 last season while senior Adam Higginbothem compiled an 11-6 record. Junior Tadd Herrman is coming off a 19- 17 campaign and Zach Wills will look to build on last year’s 16-17 record during his senior season.

“As a group, Tommy, Zach, Tadd and Adam are ready to have a big season,” Kramer said. “We as a team have taken some lumps the past two years, which is just part of the growing process as a wres - tler. Now with a couple years under their belts and them putting extra work in dur - ing the summer, we look for them to have a very successful season.”

Wills is expected to wrestle at 138, while Avery moves up to 152, Herrman fills the 170 pound weight class and Higginbothem wrestles at 220 for the Jayhawks.

Class 3-2-1A / Three Rivers League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Brett Kramer (7th year) Assistant: Cody Kramer Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 138 – Zach Wills, 16-17, Sr. 152 – Tommy Avery, 25-15, So. 170 – Tadd Herrman, 19-17, Jr. 220 – Adam Higginbothem, 11-6, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Two state qualifiers are back in the lineup at Mulvane, which went 16-2 in duals last season.

Senior Kolby Fennewald already owns two state medals, including fourth-place hardware from last year, and he’ll be gun - ning for a higher spot on the podium in 2013.

Senior Levi Carver also returns after qualifying for the 2012 state tournament, and eight other Wildcats are back with varsity experience under their belts. That group includes seniors Tanner Cusick and Josh Rodriguez, sophomore Riley Rahe and juniors Evan Elston, Pat Kraft, Chase Miller, Joe Targos and Elijah White.

“If we can get the right people in the right weight classes and our younger kids step up, we should be competitive,” veteran coach Rick Langerot said.

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 16-2 2011-12 State Placing: 16th Coach: Rick Langerot (24th year) Assistants: Jesse Myers, Kyle McClellan, Kyle Breech Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Levi Carver, state qualifier, Sr. 126 – Elijah White, Jr. 138 – Josh Rodriguez, Sr. 145 – Joe Targos, Jr. 152 – Chase Miller, Jr. 160 – Evan Elston, Jr. 170 – Kolby Fennewald, 2-time state placer, 4th at state, Sr. 195 – Tanner Cusick, Sr. 220 – Riley Rahe, So. 285 – Pat Kraft, Jr.

Melanie McGee

MULVANE WILDCATS


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Oberlin won the difficult Lakin regional last season and entered Class 3-2-1A as one of the state favorites in what was expected to be a tightly contested race. Instead, the Red Devils took fifth at state because of injuries and illness. It still marked the program’s best showing since a third-place showing in 2004.

Kade Brown, a former state placer, entered the state tournament with just two defeats, but suffered an upset loss in the first round and didn’t place. Brown wres - tled hurt and sick at state.

“I wished he could have wrestled like he wrestled all year, would have been a whole different tournament, I believe,” veteran coach Joe Dreher said.

Brown entered the state meet with a 33-2 record, but broke his hand in the regional finals match. Brown was already on medication for impetigo, a skin condition, and then mixed it with some ibuprofen to help with the hand injury.

“He had a reaction to that and really had him dazed during that first round,” Dreher said. “I know he wasn’t himself. He was dizzy and his stomach hurt and eve - rything. We learn from this.”

This season, Brown is one of four Red Devils who return with state experience, including junior Dayton Dreher, a two- time third place finisher.

“We will have a hard time filling all the weights,” Coach Dreher said. “But we have a good group of kids back and hope to improve from last year.”

Class 3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 9-5 2011-12 State Placing: 5th Coach: Joe Dreher (17th year) Assistants: Caleb Howland, Shane Bird Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 119 – Troy Juenemann, state qualifier, 20-16, So. 126 – Matthew Helm, 5-21, Sr. 126 – Gabe Anderson, 10-23, So. 138 – Dayton Dreher, 2-time state placer, 34- 7, Jr., 145 – Kade Brown, state placer in 2011, state qualifier, 35-4, Sr., 160 – Grant Gillam, 10-20, Jr. 160 – Matt Glading, Jr. 171 – Rex Diederich, So. 220 – Channing Fortin, 2-time state qualifier, 29-10, Sr., 285 – Cody Wurm, 17-18, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Eight Saints bring state tournament expe - rience to the mat as St. Thomas Aquinas looks to build off last year’s fourth place team finish.

Sophomore Isaac Dulgarian claimed gold at last year’s state tournament while jun - ior Jake Elbrader was a Class 3A runner- up at Burlington in 2012.

“We will be very competitive if we can make possible weights,” coach Lorne Parks said. “We have a lot of experience. Both seniors have the possibility of plac - ing highly in the state tournament and they will provide great leadership in and out of the room.”

Seniors Johnny Perz and Kevin McCarthy also have state experience, and Perz placed third a year ago.

Junior Luke Henes is a two-time state placer while classmate Gabe Gooch has made state in both of his high school cam - paigns. Add in sophomore Ben Ewing, who finished sixth last year, and two-time qualifier Zack Hoskins, and the Saints are loaded with state tournament veterans.

Class 5A / Eastern Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 1-0 2011-12 State Placing: 4th Coach: Lorne Parks (15th year) Assistants: Andy Leiker, Tom Williams, Randy Ewing, Mark Dulgarian Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Gabe Gooch, 2-time state qualifier, Jr. 120/126 – Jake Elbrader, 3A runner-up, Jr. 126/132 – Luke Henes, 2-time state placer, Jr. 138/145 – Isaac Dulgarian, state champion, So.; Kevin McCarthy, state qualifier, Sr. 145/152 – Zack Hoskins, 2-time state quali - fier, Jr. 160/170 – Johnny Perz, 3rd at state, 3-time state qualifier, Sr. 195/220 – Ben Ewing, 6th at state, So.

Melanie McGee

O.P.-ST. THOMAS AQUINAS SAINTS

OBERLIN-DECATUR COMM. RED DEVILS

Decatur Community’s DAYTON DREHER


Oakley brings back three state qualifiers, including senior Jason Berkgren, who fin - ished fourth at 170 pounds. Senior Cody Faulkender and sophomore Taylor Murphy return after they qualified for state.

The Plainsmen did graduate Eric Albers, who finished 35-0 at 160 pounds, the lone Class 3-2-1A wrestler in northwest Kansas who finished with an undefeated record last year. Albers is now at Air Force.

Oakley has consistently been a top-15 team the last several years, including a third-place finish and team plaque with 68 points in 2010.

“We have a pretty good group of kids returning this year, including three state qualifiers and one placer,” veteran coach Dylan Campbell, a former Oakley stand - out, said. “We also have a few good freshmen coming in. Hopefully we can take five to seven wrestlers to state again.”

Class 3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 13th Coach: Dylan Campbell (5th year) Assistant: Tyler Smith, Mike Rains Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 132 – Taylor Murphy, state qualifier, So. 145 – Wayne Flipse, Jr. 152 – Jonathan Corbett, Sr. 170 – Jason Berkgren, 4th place at state, Sr. 182 – Cody Faulkender, state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Dylan Gassman, So.

Conor Nicholl

OAKLEY PLAINSMEN

Oakley’s CODY FAULKENDER


OLATHE SOUTH FALCONS

Olathe South returns no seniors with var - sity experience, but five juniors and two sophomores are back in the lineup.

“We’ve got a young team this year,” second-year coach Conor Fitzgerald said. “We have virtually no seniors, but are returning 13 varsity lettermen.”

Juniors Benny Deaton and Bailey Yetmar are the only state qualifiers returning for the Falcons, but juniors Matthew Loy, Matthew Massey and Cameron White also have plenty of varsity experience. Sophomores Patrick Haase and Pearce Kinzer wrestled varsity as freshmen and should be much improved this season.

“I expect us to take some steps in the right direction this year with a strong sophomore and junior class,” Fitzgerald said. “We have a handful of guys that could make some noise this year.”

Class 6A / Sunflower League 2011-12 Dual Record: 4-2 2011-12 State Placing: 26th Coach: Conor Fitzgerald (2nd year) Assistants: Brandon Lien, Justin Mock, Matt Stealey, Gage Deere Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Benny Deaton, state qualifier, Jr. 120 – Bailey Yetmar, 2-time state qualifier, Jr. 126 – Cameron White, Jr. 132 – Matthew Massey, Jr. 145 – Patrick Haase, So. 152 – Pearce Kinzer, So. 195 – Matthew Loy, Jr.

Melanie McGee



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The Bulldogs will have at least three and possibly four state qualifiers back in the lineup this season. Seniors Dalton Blow and Mychael Kolterman are joined by junior Andrew Beck as the leaders of Onaga’s squad.

Senior Chance Bloomer, a two-time state qualifier, may miss the season due to injury, but if he is able to wrestle, he’ll be one of the Bulldogs’ leaders.

Onaga also returns senior Nick Poley and five underclassmen with varsity expe - rience.

“Dalton, Mychael, Nick and Chance should lead our team,” veteran coach Tim Kite said. “Andrew Beck placed fourth at state last year and will be key to our suc - cess this year as well.”

The Bulldogs have Jonathan Fairbanks back at 106 while Jacob Bryan returns at 138 pounds. Jeffery Chestnut (145), Kyle Ames (182) and Dustin Blow (195) also have varsity experience for Kite’s squad.

Class 3A / Mid-East League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-8 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Tim Kite (29th year) Assistant: Sean Spoonts Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Jonathan Fairbanks 132 – Andrew Beck, 4th at state, Jr. 138 – Jacob Bryan 145 – Chance Bloomer, 2-time state qualifier, Sr.; Jeffery Chestnut 182 – Dalton Blow, state qualifier, Sr.; Kyle Ames 195 – Dustin Blow 220 – Nick Poley 285 – Mychael Kolterman, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

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Last winter, Phillipsburg won the always difficult Mid-Continent League, but qualified just four wrestlers for state and finished 19th. Two of those wrestlers graduated in Ross Coomes, who finished 30-12 and went 2-2 at state at 145 pounds, and Matt Schneider, who finished 28-7 and took sixth place at 160 pounds.

Senior Caleb Studley and junior Michael Dusin return after they took fourth at 132 pounds and sixth at 138 pounds, respec - tively. Dakota Kohler didn’t qualify for state last year, but took fifth at 103 pounds two seasons ago. Sophomore Isaac Coomes at 126 pounds and fresh - man Nate Prewitt at 152 pounds are two Panthers who could step up to varsity this year and help the squad.

From 2006-08, Phillipsburg finished fourth, fifth and second and scored at least 85 points at the state tournament each winter. The last four seasons, the Panthers have finished back in the pack and tallied between 33.5 and 51.5 points.

“We have a good group of seniors on the team this season,” Phillipsburg coach Joe Buresh said. “We have two returning wrestlers that qualified for state last sea - son. We are looking forward to the upcoming season, with the chance to improve upon our 19th place finish a year ago.”

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-2012 Dual Record: N/A 2011-2012 State Placing: 19th Coach: Joe Buresh (13th year) Assistants: Andy Kenney, Aaron Beckman Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Kyle Wittmer, 29-6, Sr. 120 – Dakota Kohler, 14-3, Sr. 132 – Caleb Studley, 4th at state, 32-11, Sr. 138/145 – Michael Dusin, 6th at state, 36-9, Jr.

Conor Nicholl

PHILLIPSBURG PANTHERS

OSAWATOMIE TROJANS

Four state qualifiers return to lead Osawatomie, including fourth-place fin - isher Devon Dozier and two-time quali - fier Andrew Cannon.

Dozier went 23-3 last season and has made two trips to the state tournament, while Cannon finished 14-7 on the year. Add in Matt Lofing (31-19 in 2012) and the Trojans have three seniors that quali - fied for state a season ago. Junior Tanner Foulk also qualified for state in 2012.

“Devon Dozier is coming off a season- ending injury last year and his is going to try to win his second medal at state after placing fourth as a sophomore,” coach Matt Higgins said. “He has 92 high school wins and should break 100 at our second meet. Andrew Cannon is a two- time qualifier and he is hungry for his first state medal.”

Seven others return with varsity expe - rience, and the Trojans will add eight freshmen with wrestling experience.

“In my opinion, we should have a suc - cessful season if the kids reach their potential,” Higgins said. “We will have a big mix of novice wrestlers and some with experience. The wrestlers worked hard in the summer and are excited for the season to start.”

Class 4A / Pioneer League 2011-12 Dual Record: 8-10 2011-12 State Placing: DNP Coach: Matt Higgins (4th year) Assistant: Joe Collur Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Seth Hampton, 7-10, Jr. 113 – Tyler Williams, 13-19, So. 126 – Nick Lewis, 14-20, Jr. 132 – Dylan Stewart, 7-12, Sr. 145 – Andrew Cannon, 2-time state qualifier, 14-7, Sr. 152 – Andy Blanton, 12-23, So. 160 – Devon Dozier, 2-time state qualifier, 4th in 2011, 23-3, Sr. 182 – Matt Lofing, state qualifier, 31-19, Sr. 195 – Zach Owens, 4-5 Sr. 220 – Tanner Foulk, state qualifier, 10-10, Jr. 285 – Dustin Gorsic, 4-10, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Osborne will again be young and have low numbers for coach Nate Brown. The Bulldogs had no state qualifiers for the second year in a row and are three years removed from the dynamic duo of Danny Floyd and Trevor Oliver who both were multiple time state placers and finished the 2010 season as state champion and state runner-up respectively.

That 2010 season represented the high point of recent Osborne wrestling history with nine returning wrestlers back to open the 2009-10 season and Floyd finishing his third straight state championship sea - son and Oliver improving to state runner- up after finishing third the year prior.

This year the Bulldogs team preview on the kansaswrestling.org site lists only two wrestlers who could be back from last season in sophomores Chris Hall and Devyn Naegele who wrestled at 138 and 160 respectively last season. The two wrestlers took their lumps in their fresh - man seasons, but have one season of var - sity experience under their belt.

Also listed as returning wrestlers in last year’s Kansas Mat Preview were current juniors Sean Saathoff and Randy Ratcliffe.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: DNP Coach: Nate Brown Assistant: N/A

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Just one senior is gone from last year’s Riley County team, and the Falcons have several wrestlers looking to bring home state medals for the first time.

“I am very excited to work with this group again this year,” said coach Danny Grater. “After only graduating one senior and adding a great group of freshmen, I am excited to see what we can do.”

Junior Gavin Grater was the state runner- up at 160 pounds last year and will be seeking the 170-pound title this season. Seniors Jake Brazzle and Sawyer Havenstein and sophomore Josh Brazzle also have state meet experience under their belts while four other Falcons are back in the varsity lineup.

“Gavin Grater is our top returner after transferring from Clay Center where he has been a state placer the last two years,” coach Grater said. “He is hungry to finally get a state title for the high school from which our late father graduated.”

Jake Brazzle is a two-time state qualifier still looking for his first medal while classmate Brandon Swartz and juniors Zach Bohnenblust, Gibson Eyestone and Chris Marineau are also returning to the Riley County varsity.

“This group of seniors is a good one and I am excited to see if they can finally get on the podium at the end of the year,” Grater said.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-East League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Danny Grater (3rd year) Assistants: Ian Seaton, Tom Richard, Travis Havenstein Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Zach Bohnenblust, Jr. 132 – Sawyer Havenstein, state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Brandon Swartz, Sr. 145 – Gibson Eyestone, Jr. 170 – Gavin Grater, 2-time state placer, runner-up in 2012, Jr. 195 – Josh Brazzle, state qualifier, So. 220 – Jake Brazzle, 2-time state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Chris Marineau, Jr.

Melanie McGee

PITTSBURG PURPLE DRAGONS

State medalists Jeremiah Jones and Levi Kester are joined by qualifiers Gershom Avalos and Brett Cobb to lead the Purple Dragons.

Kester placed fifth at state at 106 pounds while Jones has posted back-to-back sixth-place finishes and will wrestle at 113 this year.

Pittsburg, which went 8-0 in duals last year and took fourth at state, also returns junior Kevin Barker and sophomore Quincy Muathe.

“Jeremiah and Gershom will provide us with the senior leadership we will need to have another positive year,” coach Scott Rieck said. “We also have Kevin and Quincy back, and we had a freshman move in from Arizona, where he was a middle school state champion at 170, so we should be solid once again.”

The Purple Dragons won a regional championship in 2012 and they’ll be gun - ning for another title this season.

Class 4A / Southeast Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: 8-0 2011-12 State Placing: 4th Coach: Scott Rieck (13th year) Assistant: Kris Mengarelli Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Levi Kester, 5th at state, Jr. 113 – Jeremiah Jones, 2-time state placer, 6th at state, Sr. 126 – Brett Cobb, 2-time state qualifier, Jr.; Kevin Barker, Jr. 160 – Quincy Muathe, So. 220 – Gershom Avalos, 2-time state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Last year, Plainville was possibly going to contend for a top-three finish and state trophy. Plainville won the 13-team Minneapolis meet in early December. In the middle of the year, some thought the Cardinals may have had enough for a state title. However, a knee injury to state qualifier Andy Malin kept him from wrestling. Harrison Gilliland, a former state qualifier who was ranked No. 1 in his weight class for part of the winter, also didn’t finish the season. Still, the Cardinals had a solid state tournament. Four wrestlers qualified and three return in senior Trevor Axelson, junior Dylan Wiesner and senior Bradey Chard.

Axelson (31-9) has qualified for state for three years and placed as a freshman. Wiesner (31-9) finshed 1-2 at the state meet last year. Chard took fifth at 285 pounds and finished 35-6 overall.

Chard broke his leg in football, but is expected to wrestle most of the year. Plainville is ranked eighth in the presea - son team rankings. Axelson stands fifth at 126 pounds, while Wiesner is second at 152 pounds and Chard is second at 285.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: 7-8 2011-12 State Placing: 31st Coach: Corey Dobson Assistants: Ryan Becker Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – Trevor Axelson, Sr. 152 – Dylan Wiesner, Jr. 285 – Bradey Chard, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

Two Greenbacks are state-ranked to begin the season, and Pratt also returns a third state qualifier plus a solid group of jun - iors for the 2012-13 season.

Junior Cesar Regalado finished third at last year’s state tournament and he’ll begin the season ranked first in Class 4A while senior teammate Austin Gates, a state qualifier last season, starts out ranked fourth at 220 pounds.

Senior Mitchell Baird is looking for his first state medal after going 2-2 last year while junior Trae Foreman is a former placer at the Kids State tournament.

“Our top returners have had the advan - tage of our very difficult schedule,” coach Tate Thompson said. “They have bought into our program and philosophy, so our state individual and team placings should elevate accordingly.”

Senior Weston Riner, juniors Cooper Crump and Brendan Pribil and sopho - mores Hudson Swift and Josh Ash also return with varsity experience.

“This is the first senior class that has only had me as a head coach, so this team should be a good representation of what Pratt is capable of from here on out,” Thompson said. He is assisted by two for - mer Greenback standouts – Ronald Prater and Beau Tillman.

Class 4A / Central Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 17th Coach: Tate Thompson (4th year) Assistants: Ronald Prater, Beau Tillman Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Trae Foreman, Jr. 113 – Cesar Regalado, 3rd at state, Jr. 126 – Hudson Swift, So.; Josh Ash, So. 132 – Brendan Pribil, Jr. 145 – Cooper Crump, Jr. 152 – Mitchell Baird, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Weston Riner, Sr. 220 – Austin Gates, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

PLAINVILLE CARDINALS

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Salina Central returns just one state quali - fier, but first-year coach Shannon Peters expects his veterans to make plenty of noise this year.

The Mustangs return seniors Kade True and Zak Will plus state qualifier Dayton Will, a sophomore. Central’s squad also includes seniors Chance Blackburn and Martin Tolbert, who transferred into the Mustang program during the offseason.

“I expect Kade True and Dayton Will to make some noise come February,” Peters said.

Central’s roster also includes juniors Sam Allen, Lucas Berndt and Tyler Lyndzy.

“Central is rebuilding with a good nucleus of freshmen,” Peters said. “Our team will rely heavily on our freshmen, who will provide plenty of competition.”

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Shannon Peters (1st year) Assistant: Richard Brake Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – Tyler Lyndzy, Jr. 138 – Dayton Will, state qualifier, So. 182 – Sam Allen, Jr. 220 – Kade True, Sr. 285 – Lucas Berndt, Jr.

Melanie McGee

New faces abound for Rose Hill, which returns just two state qualifiers from a team that went 3-6 in duals last year and took 18th at the Class 4A State Tournament.

“We have a few transfers and incoming freshmen who will make a varsity impact,” coach Drew Anderson said.

Jake Wilson placed fourth at state last year, and Nathan Lamb also qualified for the state tournament, but they are the only returning varsity Rockets.

Wilson begins his junior season ranked second in Class 4A after going 26-5 at 126 pounds last year. Lamb finished 13- 11 a year ago at 113 pounds.

“We look forward to having a strong team top to bottom this year and next,” Anderson said.

Class 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 3-6 2011-12 State Placing: 18th Coach: Drew Anderson (6th year) Assistant: Tony Ponce Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113/120 – Nathan Lamb, state qualifier 126/132 – Jake Wilson, 4th at state

Melanie McGee

RUSSELL BRONCOS

Six seniors will be expected to lead Russell, which is coming off a 10-2 dual record and looking to build on last year’s successes.

Four Broncos have state tournament experience and six others are back in the varsity lineup for coach Wyatt Frohling’s squad.

“We have six seniors this year and most all of them have many years of expe - rience,” Frohling said. “When this group works hard and puts their minds to it, they can be very tough. With a little luck and a lot of hard work, these young men will finish tough at the end of the year.”

Seniors Nick Sells, Dylan Walker and Regis Weiss have all competed at the state level, and sophomore Alex Baldwin qualified in 2012.

Russell also returns seniors Chris Gulick, Matt Langhofer and Andy Ochampaugh, plus junior Kaden Rohr and sophomores Dalton Brand and Blake Boxberger.

Class 3A / North Central Activities Association 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-2 2011-12 State Placing: 47th Coach: Wyatt Frohling (12th year) Assistant: Roger Sells Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Alex Baldwin, state qualifier, So. 126 – Blake Boxberger, So. 138 – Kaden Rohr, Jr. 145 – Nick Sells, 2011 state qualifier, Sr. 152 – Regis Weiss, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Matt Langhofer, Sr.; Dalton Brand, So. 182 – Dylan Walker, state qualifier, Sr. 220 – Andy Ochampaugh, Sr. 285 – Chris Gulick, Sr.

Melanie McGee

SABETHA BLUEJAYS

ROSE HILL ROCKETS

A solid group of seniors is back to lead Sabetha in the 2012-13 season, and four of them have state tournament expe - rience.

Seniors Levi Huneke (182) and Tyler Edelman (195) already own state medals and will be looking to finish higher on the podium this year while Thaine Allen and Isaac Wenger also look to cap their high school careers with state medals.

“We have a great group of seniors return - ing this season,” first year coach Adam Pyle said. “Levi is a two-time state quali - fier and we look for great things and great leadership from him. We look for Tyler to be a solid leader this year as he is one of the hardest workers in the room.”

Wenger and fellow senior Brandon Pokrandt are coming back from injuries, but both appear poised for trips to state. Allen, also a senior, has made two trips to state and is seeking his first state medal this season.

“We look to improve upon last year’s Big 7 fourth place finish and the regionals fourth place finish,” Pyle said. “Our goal is to be in the top two in both of those. At state, we placed 12th as a team and really like our chances of placing in the top ten this year.”

Class 3A / Big 7 League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 12th Coach: Adam Pyle (1st year) Assistant: Dustin Balsley Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 112 – Austin Garber 120 – Blaine Rokey 126 – Ben Meyer, 2011 state qualifier 132 – Thaine Allen, state qualifier 138 – Kyler Krebs, Tyler Ulrich 145 – Noah Krehbiel, Blake Popkess 160 – Brandon Harrell 182 – Levi Huneke, 6th at state 195 – Tyler Edelman, 5th at state; Isaac Wenger, 2011 state qualifier 220 – Sam Hughes 220/285 – Brandon Pokrandt McGee

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SALINA SOUTH COUGARS SCOTT COMMUNITY BEAVERS Salina South brings back state placer Tanner O’Donnell and five other state qualifiers to lead the 2012-13 squad.

The Cougars went 6-4 in duals last year and placed 14th at the Class 5A tour - nament, but are looking to improve on those marks this season.

“We have six returning state qualifiers with a nice group of young wrestlers with varsity experience eager to compete at a high level,” said coach Gary Seibel.

O’Donnell is one of four seniors who competed at state last year, and he’ll be aiming to move up after taking fourth as a junior. He will wrestle at 170 this year.

Seniors Grant Flemming (195), Tyler McGaha (160) and Mike Shirk (182) and juniors Tyler Irwin (113) and John McNabb (145) are all looking for their first state medals.

Scott City entered the Class 3-2-1A state championship last season as one of the favorites in what was expected to be a close race. The Beavers, though, had a strong two days at Fort Hays State University and won the state title with 98.5 points, well ahead of runner-up Hoisington, who finished at 78. It marked Scott City’s first state title at the Class 3- 2-1A ranks. The Beavers won 4A crowns in 1990, ’94 and ’04.

Scott City does graduate Luke Hayes and Clay Mulligan, who finished first at 285 pounds and second at 132 pounds, respec - tively.

However, the Beavers do bring back plenty of talent, including three state plac - ers. Most of the team will get a late start to practice because Scott City played for the Class 3A football title. Veteran coach Jon Lippelmann has let the Beavers stay focused on football until the fall season in completed.

“Have good, skilled wrestlers coming back,” Jon Lippelmann said. “A couple of talented freshmen on the team. Hope foot - ball injuries don’t slow us down. Will probably not see them until after Thanksgiving break. Then, will have to work to get a lineup.

Class 3-2-1A / Greater Western Activities Conference 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-11 2011-12 State Placing: 3-2-1A state cham - pion Coach: Jon Lippelmann (33rd year overall, 28th as head coach) Assistants: Brice Eisenhour, Aaron Dirks Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 126 – James Jurgens, state runner-up, So. 132 – Alex Kough, 2-time state placer (5th, 3rd), Sr. 152 – Devin Eggleston 170 – Warren Kropp 285 – Michael McEachern, 5th at state, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

Class 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 6-4 2011-12 State Placing: 14 Coach: Gary Seibel (9th year) Assistants: Kanean Wendell, Jeremy Magee Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Tyler Irwin, state qualifier, Jr. 145 – John McNabb, state qualifier, Jr. 160 – Tyler McGaha, state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Tanner O’Donnell, 4th at state, Sr. 182 – Mike Shirk, state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Grant Flemming, state qualifier, Sr.

Melanie McGee

Scott City’s ALEX KOUGH




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Smith Center has become one of Class 3- 2-1A’s best programs, including winning three state championships from 2007-09. Last year, the Redmen qualified seven wrestlers for state, among the most of any program, and finished seventh with 54.5 points.

This season, the Redmen return several talented wrestlers, including junior 126- pounder Clint Rogers, who has collected two state medals. Rogers finished 35-10 last season. At state, Rogers lost his first match and then came back to win three in a row. Among other returners who com - peted at state last winter, Brody Frieling finished 5-13. He drew Chase County’s Trey Francka, the eventual state cham - pion, in the first round of state. Zach Fischer finished 21-21, while Kyler Atwood went 36-9 and took third. Smith Center will have three newcomers who could play a key role in freshman 106- pounder Cale Rogers, 113-pound senior Jacob Cronin and 113-pound junior Tanner Campbell.

“Kyler Atwood is expected to do very well for us this year,” coach Brock Hutchinson said. “He has taken on the role of being a team captain and we are looking for great accomplishments out of him. Clint Rogers is a two-time state placer and has also taken on new lead - ership roles. He is also a year older and a year more mature.”

“The other seniors such as Michael Ruhge, Zach Fischer, Mack Reagan, Jacob Cronin have one last shot to get to the job done, so we are looking forward to see how they have improved and what each individually can do to help the team have success,” Hutchinson added.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League Coach: Brock Hutchinson (14th year overall, 12th as head coach) Assistants: Jon Weinman, Mike Rogers 2011-12 Dual Record: 7-7 2011-12 State Placing: 7th Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120 – Brody Frieling, state qualifier, So. 126 – Clint Rogers, 2-time state placer (fourth, fifth), Jr. 132 – Zach Fischer, state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Steven Kriley, Jr. 138/145 – Michael Ruhge, Sr. 145 – Josh Cole, Soph. 152 – Grant Lambert, (injured last year), Jr. 160 – Wyatt Oliver, Jr. 182 – Kyler Atwood, 3rd at state, Sr.

Conor Nicholl


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Last year, St. Francis didn’t have a state placer for the first time since 1936. St. Francis qualified five wrestlers to state, but four of them went 0-2. Lane Hoffman qualified for state at 106 pounds, but fin - ished 2-2. This season, former Indian standout Dylan Loyd takes over for Nathan Smith, who resigned after three years and is now the head coach at Lakin.

Loyd wrestled at Fort Hays State University and was an assistant at Thomas More Prep-Marian. This is his first season as a head coach. In his high school career, Loyd was second at 112 pounds in 2003, third at 125 pounds in 2004, third in 2005 at 125 pounds and second at 135 pounds in 2006.

Kyle Buffington, also a St. Francis gradu - ate and the Indians’ first-year football coach this spring, is the assistant. Buffington had coached at Quinter sev - eral years before the program ended and now co-ops with WaKeeney-Trego Community.

Loyd returns four state qualifiers this win - ter.

I am very excited for this group of kids,” Loyd said. “All of them are good kids who aren’t afraid to work hard. If we come together as a team and get better every day I believe we could open some eyes. Have a good group of incoming freshman that I’m really excited about them to pair with the kids we have return - ing. Should be a fun year.”

Class 3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-2012 Dual Record: 6-9 2011-2012 State Placing: 52nd Coach: Dylan Loyd (1st year) Assistant: Kyle Buffington Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 120/126 – Casey Keller, state qualifier, Sr. 126/132 – Matt Howell, So. 132/138 – Logan Lampe, Jr. 132/138 – Austin White, Jr. 145/152 – Erik Nelson, So. 152/160 – Dylan Wolaver, state qualifier, Sr. 152/160 – Mikey Leibbrandt, state qualifier, Sr. 160/170 – Derek Queen, Jr. 182/195 – Zach Gienger, state qualifier, Sr. 182/195 – Thomas Douhit, Sr. 285 – Shakotah Blanka, So.

Conor Nicholl

SMITH CENTER REDMEN

ST. FRANCIS INDIANS

The Jaguars have eight state qualifiers coming back, and coach Travis Keal is excited about the upcoming season.

“The team had a great offseason and we are looking at getting better daily,” Keal said. “This should be a great group to work with.”

Junior Landon Scott placed fifth last year and Logan Marx was sixth as a freshman. Both wrestlers will look to improve on those finishes in 2012-13.

Mill Valley also brings back state quali - fiers Bryan Burnett, Jake Ellis, Jake Gramke, Daniel Gray, Derrick Paxton and Adam Swearingen.

Paxton, a two-time state qualifier, is the only senior returner. Ellis, Gramke, Gray and Swearingen, all juniors, are looking for their first state medals as is Burnett, a sophomore.

Class 5A / Kaw Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 7th Coach: Travis Keal (13th year) Assistants: Orin Hudgins, Brett Dilich, David Hawks Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Landon Scott, 5th at state, Jr. 120 – Logan Marx, 6th at state, So. 126 – Daniel Gray, state qualifier, Jr. 132 – Bryan Burnett, state qualifier, So. 145 – Jake Ellis, state qualifier, Jr. 182 – Derrick Paxton, 2-time state qualifier, Sr. 195 – Jake Gramke, state qualifier, Jr. 220 – Adam Swearingen, state qualifier, Jr.

Melanie McGee

SHAWNEE-MILL VALLEY JAGUARS




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Sublette didn’t qualify a wrestler to the state tournament or win a dual last year, but second-year coach Matt Fox believes he could have a stronger team this winter, especially with junior 113-pounder Andy Davis.

“This year’s team should see some more success with much experience gained last season,” Fox said. “Andy Davis will be very tough at 113, coming a match away from state last year. Laramie Lumley will make some noise at 220 after gaining valuable varsity experience last year. Travis Webb has a lot of tools that will help him succeed his junior year.”

Fox believes Davis should qualify for state. Davis wrestled strong toward the end of last year and attended several sum - mer camps.

“I look for Laramie Lumley to find his place on the mat this year by wrestling tough, and would not be surprised if he finds himself at Hays in February,” Fox said.

Class 3-2-1A / Hi-Plains League 2011-12 Dual Record: 0-4 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Matt Fox (2nd year) Assistants: N/A Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Wyatt Brown, So. 113 – Andy Davis, Jr. 152 – Marco Meraz, Sr. 220 – Laramie Lumley, Sr. 285 – Travis Webb, Jr.

Conor Nicholl

SUBLETTE LARKS

The Bears lost three state qualifiers to graduation and have no seniors on the roster, but their rebuilding project is well under way with a solid group of juniors to lead the charge.

“We will be in rebuilding mode this sea - son, but there is every reason to believe that the young wrestlers will continue the success the Bears have had the past few seasons,” coach Travis VanVleck said. “We will look to juniors Triston Hurla, Bobby Bleakley and Brandy Lowe to pro - vide strong leadership.”

Hurla is seeking his second trip to the state tournament after qualifying in 2011 and barely missing out last year. Lowe was also one match short of state last year, and Bleakley spent most of last year backing up state placer Mason Hurla.

“Bobby had a solid sophomore season and looks to have a strong junior cam - paign,” VanVleck said. “Sophomore Greg Tooley was 25-4 last year when a collar - bone injury forced him to miss the last month and a half of the season. Greg is hungry and has his goals set extremely high for this upcoming season.”

Class 3A / Mid-East League 2011-12 Dual Record: 12-3 2011-12 State Placing: 41st Coach: Travis VanVleck (6th year) Assistant: Brian Braden Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Teiller Miller, 13-17, So. 132 – Greg Tooley, 25-4, So. 138 – Triston Hurla, 31-9, 2011 state quali - fier, Jr. 145 – Bobby Bleakley, 17-9, Jr. 152 – Garrett Miller, 2-2, So. 160 – Brennan Moser, 3-2, So. 170 – Kavrin Jones, 2-1, Jr.; Shawn Wages, 13-18, Jr. 182 – Brandy Lowe, 18-12, Jr.

Melanie McGee

ST. MARYS BEARS

Blue Valley must replace their top point scorers from 2011-12, but a solid group of seniors appears ready to pick up the slack.

“Our leadership has been very good,” first year coach Kale Mann said. “The return - ing upperclassmen, led by seniors Jacob Sims and Grant Robbins and junior Jackson Macoubrie, have been working hard this summer and preseason.”

Sims (120 pounds) and Macoubrie (160) are the only returning state qualifiers, but Mann’s squad also returns four other var - sity wrestlers. Senior Dakota Ellis, Robbins, junior Foster Hartman and sophomore Cody Dusthimer will all be looking for their first trip to the state tour - nament.

Blue Valley graduated a large part of the lineup, but Mann expects his newcomers to step up this season.

“We have many wrestlers looking to fill those spots including experienced upper - classmen and some tough freshmen,” he said.

Class 5A / Eastern Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: 18th Coach: Kale Mann (1st year) Assistants: Adam Nehring, Trevor Goertzen, Brandon Olney, Kellen Baysinger, Jeremiah Beltran Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Cody Dusthimer, So. 120 – Jacob Sims, state qualifier, Sr. 132 – Grant Robbins, Sr. 152 – Foster Hartman, Jr. 160 – Jackson Macoubrie, state qualifier, Jr. 171 – Dakota Ellis, Sr.

Melanie McGee

STILWELL-BLUE VALLEY TIGERS

Last winter, Stockton took two wrestlers to regionals, including Connor Winters, who qualified as a senior at 195 pounds and finished 1-2 at state under coach Clint Bedore, a former Stockton and Fort Hays State University football standout.

Stockton battled low numbers last season and will likely have low numbers again this year for Bedore, a former state placer for Stockton.

Bedore taught at Sterling and coached in Nickerson for 10 years before he and his family returned to his hometown. Bedore estimated Stockton has had three years since 1972 the Tigers didn’t qualify any - one for state. One of those seasons occurred in 2011 before Winters qualified last year.

This season, Bedore expects to have three sophomores and four freshmen.

“We will look to get better each and eve - ryday,” Bedore said.

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: 1-6 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Clint Bedore (2nd year) Assistant: N/A Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 285 – Taten Pulec, So.

Conor Nicholl

STOCKTON TIGERS

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The Junior Blues have three state quali - fiers and nine other varsity wrestlers back in the lineup for the 2012-13 season, though graduation did take a heavy toll.

“We lost some important senior lead - ership last year, so we’re going to be pretty green in some key areas,” coach Damon Parker said. “Younger wrestlers are going to have to fill some key roles and our older wrestlers are going to have to learn to become better leaders if we want to accomplish our goals for this sea - son.”

Seniors Weston Mikoleit (132) and Aaron Wilson (138) both competed at state last year, as did junior Stephen Stamps (145).

“Weston is a great wrestler on bottom who has been working on his neutral offense through the offseason,” Parker said. “Aaron put on a lot of good weight and will need to adjust to wrestling heav - ier individuals. Stephen got great expe - rience going to state as a sophomore, but now we expect him to bring home some hardware.”

Washburn Rural has three other senior returners plus four juniors and two sopho - mores with varsity experience.

Class 6A / Centennial League 2011-12 Dual Record: 8-7 2011-12 State Placing: 28th Coach: Damon Parker (2nd year) Assistants: Patrick Schultes, Derek Trammell, Aaron Freislinger, John Hayden Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Nick Frakes, Jr. 113 – Jordan Short, Sr. 120 – Josh Garrett, Jr. 126 – Sabastian Cuffel, Sr. 132 – Weston Mikoleit, state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Aaron Wilson, state qualifier, Sr. 145 – Stephen Stamps, state qualifier, Jr. 160 – Nathan Mikoleit, So. 170 – Elijah Scharp, Jr. 182 – Aaron Davis, Jr. 220 – Jacob Nemecheck, So. 285 – Domingo Lopez, Sr.

Melanie McGee

TOPEKA-WASHBURN RURAL JR. BLUES

State champion Nick Meck is one of seven seniors back in the Thunderbird lineup, which has coach Chad Parks excited about the upcoming season.

Shawnee Heights returns 14 wrestlers with varsity experience, including 10 that competed at the state tournament last year.

“We are very excited about the possibili - ties that exist for our wrestling program,” Parks said. “There are a couple of good young guys that will break into the start - ing line-up this season as well.”

Meck will line up at 182 pounds, while fourth-place finisher Tyson Toelkes and fifth-place medalist Shannon Meck are expected to wrestle at 220 and 285 respectively.

Seniors Justin Dyer (state qualifier), Talin Golightley, Colton Kooser and Ben Taliaferro (state qualifier) are also back in the Thunderbird lineup.

“This is the most seniors we have ever had on a team and they provide excellent leadership,” Parks said. “There are some very strong young wrestlers on the team as well that may step up and surprise some people.”

Class 5A / Centennial League 2011-12 Dual Record: 5-4 2011-12 State Placing: 13th Coach: Chad Parks (8th year) Assistants: Jeff Albers, Frank Crosson, Derek Holly Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Trevor Wathke, state qualifier, Jr.; Garrett Morris, state qualifier, Jr. 126 – Andrew Miller, So.; Ben Pollock, Jr. 132 – Dalton Mulligan, 2-time state qualifier, Sr. 138 – Alan Smith, state qualifier, So. 145 – Justin Dyer, state qualifier, Sr. 152 – Talin Golightley, Sr. 160 – Carter Hall, state qualifier, So. 170 – Colton Kooser, Sr. 182 – Nick Meck, state champion, Sr. 195 – Ben Taliaferro, state qualifier, Sr. 220 – Tyson Tolkes, 4th at state, Jr. 285 – Shannon Meck, 5th at state, Sr.

Melanie McGee

TECUMSEH-SHAWNEE HEIGHTS T-BIRDS

Five state qualifiers and five other varsity starters return to lead Tonganoxie in the 2012-13 season.

“Last season we had eight state qualifiers, and five of them are returning including one state placer, Asher Huseman,” coach Jeremy Goebel said.

Huseman, a sophomore expected to wres - tle at 152 this year, placed sixth at 138 a year ago.

He is one of several experienced under - classmen on Goebel’s squad as junior Clayton Himpel is a former state placer and junior Joe Wolf also competed at the 2012 state tournament.

Tonganoxie has a solid senior class head - lined by state qualifiers Julius Coats and Thomas Miller.

“This year’s senior class has state expe - rience with Thomas and Julius, and the other three seniors – Ty Barton, Gus Dent and Josh Sloan – are looking to find a spot in the lineup,” Goebel said.

Junior Dylan Yates returns to the mat after missing last season due to a shoulder injury, and the Chieftains have several other wrestlers battling for varsity spots after successful JV performances.

Class 4A / Kaw Valley League 2011-12 Dual Record: 4-0 2011-12 State Placing: 37th Coach: Jeremy Goebel (10th year) Assistants: Ross Starcher, Brian Kroll Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Connor Yates, So. 113 – Garrett Martin, So. 120/126 – Clayton Himpel, 2-time state quali - fier, 4th in 2011, Jr. 138 – Joe Wolf, state qualifier, Jr. 152 – Asher Huseman, 6th at state, So. 182 – Luke Carey, Jr. 195 – Julius Coats, state qualifier, Sr. 220 – Thomas Miller, state qualifier, Sr. 220/285 – Zeke Kissinger, Jr. 285 – Ty Barton, Sr.

Melanie McGee

TONGANOXIE CHIEFTANS

Seaman returns six state qualifiers includ - ing a state champion and two other medalists. The Vikings will be led by a solid senior class that includes four state qualifiers.

The most decorated Viking is senior Bryant Guillen, who won the state cham - pionship last season and has 97 career wins. He already has the school record with 69 career falls and owns a pair of fifth-place state medals from his first two seasons.

“A statistic that won’t reach the record books, but deserves mention is the fact that Bryant has never been pinned during his high school career,” coach Patrick Kelly said. “If his final season is anything like his previous three, Bryant will go down as the most accomplished wrestler in the 52-year history of the Seaman wrestling program.”

Sophomore Khamin Crow went 34-5 and placed third at the Class 3A tournament last year while wrestling for Silver Lake, and he should give Seaman’s lineup an immediate boost.

Seniors Brandon Fuller, Dylan Hall and Nathan Stanley all have state tournament experience, as does junior Sam Mizell.

Class 5A / Centennial League 2011-12 Dual Record: 2-5 2011-12 State Placing: 6th Coach: Patrick Kelly (5th year) Assistants: Chad Flores, Dallas Holloway, Tim Horgan, Jon Ray Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Khamin Crow, 3rd at 321A state, So. 138 – Daemeion Gay, So. 145 – Brandon Fuller, 2011 state qualifier, Sr. 152 – Sam Mizell, state qualifier, Jr. 160 – Bryant Guillen, 2-time state placer, 2012 state champion, Sr. 220 – Nathan Stanley, 2-time state qualifier, Sr. 285 – Dylan Hall, 4th at state, Sr.

Melanie McGee

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The Campus Colts return two state quali - fiers and four others with varsity expe - rience as they look to build on a 10-12 dual record from the 2011-12 season.

Seniors Jake Greider (120) and Joe Thompson (145) both qualified for state a year ago, and Campus also brings back senior Dalton Bourn (195), juniors Tommy Miller (113) and Devon Rogers (182) and sophomore Tyler Rastian (285).

“We have three state qualifiers coming back and the younger kids are getting bet - ter,” coach Travis Bourn said. “I think we should have a good mix of freshmen through seniors.”

Bourn expects big things from Greider and Thompson and others on the squad.

“Thompson and Greider should have a good season,” he said. “I am looking for Tommy Miller to have a great season as well.”

Class 6A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League 2011-12 Dual Record: 10-12 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Travis Bourn (14th year) Assistants: Jim Dryden, Shawn Langhover Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Tommy Miller, Jr. 120 – Jake Greider, state qualifier, Sr. 145 – Joe Thompson, state qualifier, Sr. 182 – Devon Rogers, Jr. 195 – Dalton Bourn, Sr. 285 – Tyler Rastian, So.

Melanie McGee

Last year’s “big gun” is gone but Kapaun Mount Carmel has 14 wrestlers back with varsity experience and coach Tim Dryden expects his squad to send a large group to the state tournament.

“We have a lot of varsity wrestlers back,” he said. “We may not have the big gun as we did last year, but I think we have the potential for more qualifiers and placers at state.”

Among those expected to challenge for state medals are third-place finishers Patrick Burrus and Parker Howell. Seniors Nick Heiland, Alex Mills and Alex Schutz also face high expectations this season.

“Key will be keeping wrestlers injury-free as Mills, Schutz and Heiland were injured last year,” Dryden said. “They are three key seniors we will lean on for leadership. All will have to shake off the rust as they missed significant time last season due to injuries, and they all have the potential to bring home a medal from the state tour - nament.

“Howell and Burrus, both coming off third-place state finishes, will be expected to lead,” Dryden added.

Burrus and Howell both claimed Greater Wichita Athletic League titles last year, while Jacob Mills finished as league runner-up. Andrew Egan and Luke Wilson both qualified for state last sea - son.

Class 5A / Greater Wichita Athletic League 2011-12 Dual Record: 14-4 2011-12 State Placing: 10th Coach: Tim Dryden (15th year) Assistants: Louis Spangler, Jacob Klein, Shane Pope, Tim Nance Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 106 – Andrew Egan, state qualifier 113 – Parker Howell, 2-time state qualifier, 3rd at state 126 – Jacob Mills 132 – Patrick Burrus, 3rd at state, 138 – Luke Wilson, state qualifier 145/152 – Alex Mills, 2011 state qualifier, Sr. 152 – Brandon Williams, Brandon Le 160 – Alex Schutz, 2011 state qualifier, Sr. 170 – Tom Hand, Ethan Harp 182 – Nick Heiland, 2011 state qualifier, Sr. 195 – CJ Pore 220 – Sam LaFluer 285 – Ben Norris

Melanie McGee

Greeley County will have a wrestling team for the first time since 1992. Senior Devin Langdon will be the senior leader this season. Langdon has wrestled in the past and will help teach and motivate the team.

The Jackrabbits are expected to fill five weight classes with four seniors and a freshman.

“It will be a year for building fundamen - tals for many first-time wrestlers,” first- year coach Nathan Broeckelman said.

Class 3-2-1A / Northwest Kansas League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: N/A Coach: Nathan Broeckelman (1st year) Assistants: None Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 113 – Isaac Stone, Fr. 145 – Isaiah Stone, Sr. 152 – Devin Langdon, Sr. 160 – Jimmy Lehman, Sr. 170 – Joel Lehman, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

TRIBUNE-GREELEY CO. JACKRABBITS

Last winter, WaKeeney-Trego had its first state qualifier since 2008 when 285- pounder Dustin Zahn reached the state meet. Zahn actually went to Quinter, which has formed a co-op with the Golden Eagles the last couple years in wrestling. Zahn was the first Quinter wrestler to qualify for state since 2007.

This year, assistant coach Jeremy Samson takes over the program. Michael Malay, a former Trego state wrestling champion, is the assistant. The team returns several tal - ented wrestlers, including seniors Mike Goff and Cameron Staples. The duo had strong sophomore years, but then missed all of last season because of injury. Samson expects strong winters from Goff and Staples.

“I look for my team to improve each week,” Samson said. “We will have some good leaders in the practice room, to set the tone for the season. We will have some freshmen and other underclassmen as large contributors this year.”

Class 3-2-1A / Mid-Continent League 2011-12 Dual Record: N/A 2011-12 State Placing: DNP Coach: Jeremy Samson (1st year) Assistant: Michael Malay Returning weights (anticipated weight, name, state qualifier/placing, class): 138 – Brandon Schoenthaler, Jr. 145 – Tyler Lowry, Jr. 152 – Mike Goff, Sr. 160 – Haden Finley, Sr. 170 – Cameron Staples, Sr.

Conor Nicholl

WAKEENEY-TREGO COMM. GOLDEN EAGLES

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WICHITA-KAPAUN MT. CARMEL CRUSADERS

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