Coach: Brian Cunningham (2nd year)
2004-5 Record: 27-5 (Independent); won district and regional titles; lost to Addison in state quarterfinal match
Returning athletes: Josh Burtch*, sr. (140); Mark Cicalo*, jr., (130); Jon DeRosia, sr., (140); Mike Gusler, jr., (125); Mo Hanhaz, jr. (171); Melvin Hottois, soph., (103); Adam Javor, jr. transfer, (125); Hugh Jenkins, soph. (150); Robert Johnstone*, jr. (135); Zac Maloney*, sr. (145); Joe McGeathy, sr. (215); Nick Pargoff*, sr. (275); Nate Pargoff, sr. (275); Kevin Prince, sr. (119); Chris Shimmons, sr. (145); Anthony Torrez, sr. (130). (* Team Captains)
First time on varsity: Jared Dietzel, Joe Giordano, Kyle Hensley, Adam Parada, Brandon Brace, Tom Jennings, Robert Johnson, Dillon Lagrow, Chancey Rattie, Justin Thayer.
Going their way: Nine regional qualifiers return, but that isn’t how W-P measures success. Burtch won an individual state title last season at 135 lbs., while Maloney and Cicalo each earned state medals. Add to that mix Javor, a transfer from Hale that also made regionals and will be eligible to wrestle at the end of the first semester. “Expectations are very high,” Cunningham says. “With eight seniors, we should be able to put things together.”
Something to prove: With all their success, the Cards haven’t won an NEMC title during their run of nine state finals in 10 years. Now that they’ve rejoined the league, they have that chance, but standing in the way is Ogemaw Heights, which narrowly lost to the Cards 39-35 last year and should be stronger this season. The teams meet Jan. 5 in a showdown that should decide the dual-meet half of the NEMC title.
X-Factor: Despite the strong returning cast, the Cards did lose state finals regulars Jesse Garchow, Jeremy Forro and Justin Hensley, as well as four other seniors to graduation. The Cards will be good; how good will depend on who steps in to fill those holes in the lineup. |
