St. Mary Catholic Central Wrestling 2025 Winter Season Recap: Growth, Grit, and Promise for the Future
The 2025 wrestling season at St. Mary Catholic Central marked another milestone for a program steadily rising in strength and reputation. Varsity head coach Nicholas Eby reflected on a year defined by hard work, individual breakthroughs, and a collective spirit that powered the team to new heights.
From a modest beginning of just three wrestlers in 2018, the program has grown to a solid roster of 23 wrestlers this season. This growth not only highlights increased interest but also signals the team’s ability to compete at higher levels in both dual meets and tournaments. With a final team record of 22-12, and multiple wrestlers qualifying for postseason competition in a highly competitive Division 4 district, the season was a testament to progress and promise.
Key Contributors and Their Impact
Coach Eby pointed to several standout wrestlers whose performances played pivotal roles in the team’s overall success.
Brianna Lynch led the girls’ squad with an impressive 5th-place finish at the state level, cementing herself as a top competitor and a role model for the girls’ team. Her record of 35 wins and 12 losses, along with 18 pins and nearly 4 team points per match, showcased her dominance on the mat. Lynch’s ability to score near-fall points and maintain control in matches made her a critical asset throughout the season.
Another female wrestler, AnnMarie Gessner, also qualified for the state tournament and faced tough competition, falling only to the number one ranked girl in the high-stakes blood round—the round where a win means advancing to state and a loss means elimination. With a season record of 24-10 and strong technical stats, Gessner’s contributions underscored the depth and competitiveness of the girls’ team.
On the boys’ side, Kyle Bashaw was the standout leader, finishing with an impressive 42-11 record and leading the team in total points scored. Bashaw’s ability to consistently dominate his matches helped propel the team in dual meets and tournaments. His high pin count and ability to rack up near-fall points made him a key wrestler to watch all season.
Coach Eby highlighted the impressive effort of Landon Barron and Phineas Totten, two underclassmen who showed grit and versatility. Barron, a sophomore wrestling primarily at 150 pounds, and Totten, a freshman at 120 pounds (who even stepped up to 132 pounds when needed), wrestled hard every time they stepped on the mat. They often competed outside their usual weight classes to maximize the team’s chances of success. Though both fell just short of qualifying for state after losses in the regional blood round, their performances promise exciting potential for the coming years.
The Evolution of the Program
The growth of the team over the past seven years is a story of dedication and steady progress. From only three wrestlers in 2018, the program has cultivated a culture of hard work, resilience, and teamwork. Coach Eby expressed pride in how the team has evolved to compete strongly in both individual tournaments and dual team events.
With 23 wrestlers on the roster this year, many exhibited not just physical toughness but also mental resilience and passion. The team’s 22-12 record reflects the collective effort and the increasing competitiveness in one of the toughest districts in Division 4 wrestling. Qualifying five boys and four girls for regional competition was a major accomplishment that speaks to the depth and skill level across the entire roster.
Coach Eby noted that this progression is a direct result of the wrestlers’ commitment to improving every day—whether in practice, weight management, or mental preparation. The athletes’ willingness to fight for every point and learn from each match bodes well for the program’s future.
Season Statistics Highlight Team Effort and Individual Excellence
The season’s statistics reveal a balanced team effort with multiple wrestlers contributing wins, pins, and critical points.
The team amassed a total of 400 wins against 298 losses.
There were 244 pins recorded by the wrestlers, showing their ability to finish matches decisively.
Near-fall points, which are critical for turning matches, were accumulated consistently, with over 100 near-fall 4-point moves, demonstrating offensive aggression.
Top wrestlers like Bret Stark (36-11), Caleb Totten (29-15), and Ann Marie Gessner (24-10) added depth to the lineup with solid win percentages and technical dominance in matches.
Underclassmen such as freshman Christiaan Craanen and sophomore Tyler Bashaw also showed promise with winning records and high-scoring matches, suggesting a bright future for the team as these athletes mature and gain experience.
Looking Forward: Off-Season Focus and Goals
Coach Eby is clear about the path forward: the off-season will be dedicated to continual improvement across all dimensions—mental toughness, physical conditioning, and technical skill development. The goal is to build on the foundation laid this season and prepare the team for even greater success next year.
The coach expressed excitement about watching the younger wrestlers grow and develop, especially those like Landon Barron and Phineas Totten, whose hard work and competitive spirit set the tone for years to come.
Building a Legacy at St. Mary Catholic Central
The 2025 season was more than just a collection of matches and scores—it was a statement about the program’s trajectory. The team’s growth from a handful of wrestlers to a competitive squad capable of challenging the best in the district reflects the commitment of the athletes, coaches, and school community.
Coach Eby’s vision for the program is rooted in continuous development and fostering a supportive environment where wrestlers learn not only how to compete but how to persevere and grow as individuals.
The leadership of key athletes, the contributions of every team member, and the strategic coaching all combine to create a program that is gaining momentum and respect.
Final Thoughts
This season’s results and individual accomplishments show that St. Mary Catholic Central wrestling is on an upward path. With strong leadership from athletes like Brianna Lynch, AnnMarie Gessner, Kyle Bashaw, and emerging talent from underclassmen, the team is positioned to be a force in Division 4 wrestling for years to come.
Coach Eby’s commitment to building not only skilled wrestlers but also well-rounded young athletes provides a foundation for sustained success. As the team looks ahead to the off-season and the 2026 campaign, the focus on growth and determination promises exciting times ahead for Saints wrestling.
Summary:
The 2025 season for St. Mary Catholic Central wrestling was marked by individual excellence, collective growth, and a strong team spirit. With key wrestlers leading the way, a competitive 22-12 record, and multiple postseason qualifiers in one of the toughest districts, the Saints have cemented their place as a rising program. Guided by Coach Eby’s leadership and fueled by dedicated athletes, the future looks bright on the mats at St. Mary Catholic Central.
, wrestled hard every time they stepped on the mat. They often competed outside their usual weight classes to maximize the team’s chances of success. Though both fell just short of qualifying for state after losses in the regional blood round, their performances promise exciting potential for the coming years.
The Evolution of the Program
The growth of the team over the past seven years is a story of dedication and steady progress. From only three wrestlers in 2018, the program has cultivated a culture of hard work, resilience, and teamwork. Coach Eby expressed pride in how the team has evolved to compete strongly in both individual tournaments and dual team events.
With 23 wrestlers on the roster this year, many exhibited not just physical toughness but also mental resilience and passion. The team’s 22-12 record reflects the collective effort and the increasing competitiveness in one of the toughest districts in Division 4 wrestling. Qualifying five boys and four girls for regional competition was a major accomplishment that speaks to the depth and skill level across the entire roster.
Coach Eby noted that this progression is a direct result of the wrestlers’ commitment to improving every day—whether in practice, weight management, or mental preparation. The athletes’ willingness to fight for every point and learn from each match bodes well for the program’s future.
Season Statistics Highlight Team Effort and Individual Excellence
The season’s statistics reveal a balanced team effort with multiple wrestlers contributing wins, pins, and critical points.
The team amassed a total of 400 wins against 298 losses.
There were 244 pins recorded by the wrestlers, showing their ability to finish matches decisively.
Near-fall points, which are critical for turning matches, were accumulated consistently, with over 100 near-fall 4-point moves, demonstrating offensive aggression.
Top wrestlers like Bret Stark (36-11), Caleb Totten (29-15), and Ann Marie Gessner (24-10) added depth to the lineup with solid win percentages and technical dominance in matches.
Underclassmen such as freshman Christiaan Craanen and sophomore Tyler Bashaw also showed promise with winning records and high-scoring matches, suggesting a bright future for the team as these athletes mature and gain experience.
Looking Forward: Off-Season Focus and Goals
Coach Eby is clear about the path forward: the off-season will be dedicated to continual improvement across all dimensions—mental toughness, physical conditioning, and technical skill development. The goal is to build on the foundation laid this season and prepare the team for even greater success next year.
The coach expressed excitement about watching the younger wrestlers grow and develop, especially those like Landon Barron and Phineas Totten, whose hard work and competitive spirit set the tone for years to come.
Building a Legacy at St. Mary Catholic Central
The 2025 season was more than just a collection of matches and scores—it was a statement about the program’s trajectory. The team’s growth from a handful of wrestlers to a competitive squad capable of challenging the best in the district reflects the commitment of the athletes, coaches, and school community.
Coach Eby’s vision for the program is rooted in continuous development and fostering a supportive environment where wrestlers learn not only how to compete but how to persevere and grow as individuals.
The leadership of key athletes, the contributions of every team member, and the strategic coaching all combine to create a program that is gaining momentum and respect.
Final Thoughts
This season’s results and individual accomplishments show that St. Mary Catholic Central wrestling is on an upward path. With strong leadership from athletes like Brianna Lynch, AnnMarie Gessner, Kyle Bashaw, and emerging talent from underclassmen, the team is positioned to be a force in Division 4 wrestling for years to come.
Coach Eby’s commitment to building not only skilled wrestlers but also well-rounded young athletes provides a foundation for sustained success. As the team looks ahead to the off-season and the 2026 campaign, the focus on growth and determination promises exciting times ahead for Saints wrestling.
Summary:
The 2025 season for St. Mary Catholic Central wrestling was marked by individual excellence, collective growth, and a strong team spirit. With key wrestlers leading the way, a competitive 22-12 record, and multiple postseason qualifiers in one of the toughest districts, the Saints have cemented their place as a rising program. Guided by Coach Eby’s leadership and fueled by dedicated athletes, the future looks bright on the mats at St. Mary Catholic Central.)
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