Palatine High School Wrestling Season Preview

The 2024–25 wrestling season for Palatine High School proved to be a pivotal year of growth, leadership, and emerging potential as the Pirates continued their steady climb toward championship contention. With a 9-6 record and a roster of wrestlers committed to year-round improvement, the foundation for a bright future has been laid. Key Contributors The Pirates were powered by standout performances from Trey Widlowski, Donovan Acosta, and Jaylen Maiden, who each played critical roles in driving the team’s success on the mat. Their leadership, skill, and competitive edge set the tone for the season and inspired their teammates to rise to the challenge. Season Highlights Coach Zuunbayan described the season as “pretty good,” with Senior Night standing out as a defining moment—an evening that encapsulated the spirit, camaraderie, and legacy of the seniors who have paved the way for the program’s future. Rising Stars As the season progressed, Donovan Acosta and Diego Bueno emerged as wrestlers who significantly elevated their roles, showing clear signs of development and readiness for greater challenges next year. Leadership and Legacy The senior class served as a vital “stepping stone” for the younger generation of wrestlers. Their leadership, effort, and presence helped create a blueprint for success, one that the upcoming group is eager to follow. Future Outlook The coaching staff is especially excited about returning wrestlers like Daniel, Joel, Aidan, Nathan, Evelyn, Irma, Karl, Michael, and Mohammed, all of whom have been training at the club level and pushing themselves in the offseason. A strong group of incoming freshmen with club experience is also expected to contribute right away. “With these wrestlers,” said Coach Zuunbayan, “we have a shot at the division championship title.” Offseason Goals Palatine’s philosophy is simple and powerful: "You get what you give in." Coach Zuunbayan emphasizes year-round training as the cornerstone of long-term success. “We’ll keep chipping at that stone of winning. Eventually we’ll break through—it’s just a matter of time.”