Reagan Wrestling's Winter 2025 Recap: A Season of Milestones, Momentum, and Promise
By the time the mats were rolled up and the lights dimmed on the 2025 winter wrestling season, Reagan High School's wrestling team—led by Head Coach Steve Keaton—had once again carved out a year to remember. With an impressive 31 dual wins, tying the single-season record set just last year, and a slew of individual triumphs across the board, the Raiders demonstrated grit, growth, and the makings of a powerhouse program in North Carolina high school wrestling.
Core Contributors: The Backbone of the Season
Coach Keaton highlighted several standout performers who not only racked up victories but also set the tone for the rest of the team.
Leading the charge was Nate Jones, a junior wrestling at 120 lbs, who not only served as team captain but also amassed over 40 wins this season. Jones is on pace to surpass the 100-win milestone early in his senior year, a testament to his consistency, leadership, and relentless work ethic.
Alongside him, Mike King, another dominant junior at 175 lbs, matched Jones with over 40 wins of his own. King's strength and skill made him a key player in crucial duals throughout the season.
Noah Jackson, a freshman wrestling at 144 lbs, burst onto the scene and made an immediate impact with over 30 wins. His fearless performances against seasoned opponents showed he was more than ready for varsity-level competition.
The team also benefited immensely from Anthony Valentino (138 lbs), a junior who advanced deep into the Regional tournament and narrowly missed a state berth. His season, which included over 40 victories, underscored his value as a steady and skilled contributor.
At 165 lbs, Kade Hennessy, just a sophomore, showed exceptional promise by securing more than 30 wins against high-level competition. Coach Keaton expects him to be a major force next season.
Meanwhile, Riley Leak, a freshman heavyweight, captured attention across the region with 35 wins. His raw strength and agility suggest a bright future ahead, and he’ll undoubtedly be one to watch as he enters his sophomore campaign.
On the girls’ side, Isabella Vargas (165 lbs), Gwen Hiestand (145 lbs), Kaylie Taylor (126 lbs), and Chloie Boza (107 lbs) helped propel the Lady Raiders to new heights. These young women laid a strong foundation and will return next season, aiming even higher.
Season Summary: Milestones and Momentum
Reflecting on the season, Coach Keaton described it as a significant success. The 31 dual wins matched the program’s all-time best, and 13 wrestlers earned spots in the NC4A Midwest Regional Tournament—an indicator of the team’s depth and growing competitiveness.
A personal highlight came when Keaton, in just his fourth year as head coach, achieved 100 career coaching wins, a milestone that mirrors the upward trajectory of the program under his leadership.
“This program has come so far over the past 4 years,” Keaton said. “Each year, we continue to become a major competitor in North Carolina high school wrestling.”
Rising Stars and Turning Points
While the top performers stole headlines, the season was also defined by the development of wrestlers who embraced larger roles as the season progressed. Coach Keaton specifically praised Myer Martin, Owen Shick, Jacob Hedrick, and Mat Paraschiv, noting their growth and potential to become cornerstones of the 2025–2026 squad.
“These wrestlers made huge gains this season,” he said. “They’re going to be major contributors moving forward.”
Though the season had its share of challenges—including injuries, tough losses, and the pressure of high-stakes competition—Coach Keaton emphasized the team’s resilience and unity. The group remained focused, and their ability to battle through adversity only strengthened their bond.
Senior Leadership: The Lasting Legacy of Thomas Phelps
The lone senior highlighted by Keaton was Thomas Phelps, a four-year veteran and team captain. Phelps embodied what it meant to be a “Raider Wrestler,” serving as a role model through his discipline, intensity, and unwavering commitment.
“Thomas was the standard,” Keaton noted. “He bought into the Raider Wrestling philosophy from Day 1 and 100% embodied the Big Dog mentality. He will be greatly missed, but his impact will be felt for years to come.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Perhaps the most exciting part of the season’s conclusion is what lies ahead. Every one of the 14 weight classes was filled by a wrestler who is eligible to return next season. The roster is stacked with young, talented athletes who have already proven they can compete—and win—at a high level.
“This is a young team that can be dominant for years to come,” Keaton said. “And they’re hungry for more.”
Offseason Goals and Program Vision
As the offseason begins, Coach Keaton is focused on continued development and improvement. Whether through strength training, refining technique, or building mental toughness, the goal is clear: to take the next step and become a perennial contender at the state level.
Though specific stats and records for the season can be found through school and regional athletic portals, what truly stands out from this season isn't just the numbers—it’s the story of a team rising, united by a common goal and driven by a hunger to be great.
As the Reagan Raiders wrap up an unforgettable winter, the foundation has been set, the future is bright, and the echoes of a season filled with effort, milestones, and resilience will resonate well into next year and beyond.
For more stats, highlights, and future updates on Reagan Wrestling, visit the school’s athletics page or follow Coach Keaton and the team through official social media channels.
, a junior who advanced deep into the Regional tournament and narrowly missed a state berth. His season, which included over 40 victories, underscored his value as a steady and skilled contributor.
At 165 lbs, Kade Hennessy, just a sophomore, showed exceptional promise by securing more than 30 wins against high-level competition. Coach Keaton expects him to be a major force next season.
Meanwhile, Riley Leak, a freshman heavyweight, captured attention across the region with 35 wins. His raw strength and agility suggest a bright future ahead, and he’ll undoubtedly be one to watch as he enters his sophomore campaign.
On the girls’ side, Isabella Vargas (165 lbs), Gwen Hiestand (145 lbs), Kaylie Taylor (126 lbs), and Chloie Boza (107 lbs) helped propel the Lady Raiders to new heights. These young women laid a strong foundation and will return next season, aiming even higher.
Season Summary: Milestones and Momentum
Reflecting on the season, Coach Keaton described it as a significant success. The 31 dual wins matched the program’s all-time best, and 13 wrestlers earned spots in the NC4A Midwest Regional Tournament—an indicator of the team’s depth and growing competitiveness.
A personal highlight came when Keaton, in just his fourth year as head coach, achieved 100 career coaching wins, a milestone that mirrors the upward trajectory of the program under his leadership.
“This program has come so far over the past 4 years,” Keaton said. “Each year, we continue to become a major competitor in North Carolina high school wrestling.”
Rising Stars and Turning Points
While the top performers stole headlines, the season was also defined by the development of wrestlers who embraced larger roles as the season progressed. Coach Keaton specifically praised Myer Martin, Owen Shick, Jacob Hedrick, and Mat Paraschiv, noting their growth and potential to become cornerstones of the 2025–2026 squad.
“These wrestlers made huge gains this season,” he said. “They’re going to be major contributors moving forward.”
Though the season had its share of challenges—including injuries, tough losses, and the pressure of high-stakes competition—Coach Keaton emphasized the team’s resilience and unity. The group remained focused, and their ability to battle through adversity only strengthened their bond.
Senior Leadership: The Lasting Legacy of Thomas Phelps
The lone senior highlighted by Keaton was Thomas Phelps, a four-year veteran and team captain. Phelps embodied what it meant to be a “Raider Wrestler,” serving as a role model through his discipline, intensity, and unwavering commitment.
“Thomas was the standard,” Keaton noted. “He bought into the Raider Wrestling philosophy from Day 1 and 100% embodied the Big Dog mentality. He will be greatly missed, but his impact will be felt for years to come.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Perhaps the most exciting part of the season’s conclusion is what lies ahead. Every one of the 14 weight classes was filled by a wrestler who is eligible to return next season. The roster is stacked with young, talented athletes who have already proven they can compete—and win—at a high level.
“This is a young team that can be dominant for years to come,” Keaton said. “And they’re hungry for more.”
Offseason Goals and Program Vision
As the offseason begins, Coach Keaton is focused on continued development and improvement. Whether through strength training, refining technique, or building mental toughness, the goal is clear: to take the next step and become a perennial contender at the state level.
Though specific stats and records for the season can be found through school and regional athletic portals, what truly stands out from this season isn't just the numbers—it’s the story of a team rising, united by a common goal and driven by a hunger to be great.
As the Reagan Raiders wrap up an unforgettable winter, the foundation has been set, the future is bright, and the echoes of a season filled with effort, milestones, and resilience will resonate well into next year and beyond.
For more stats, highlights, and future updates on Reagan Wrestling, visit the school’s athletics page or follow Coach Keaton and the team through official social media channels.)
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