Redwood High School is gearing up for an exciting year, and the team has looked towards Coach Dave Watts to set the standard for success. With sights set on a return to championship contention, Watts has laid out his expectations and goals for the team this season.

The main goal of the team this season is to replicate their accomplishments from last season, including EYL Champions, Division II Champions, Top 10 Masters status, and possibly reach the Top 15 in the State. With this in mind, coach Watts has recognized the need to capitalize on the strengths of returning players and bring up the level of the new and upcoming athletes as well.

Among the top returning players include 138 pounder, Isaak Mendoza, currently ranked #29 in the state, with a 39-13 record. 190 pounder, Enrique Segura, currently ranked #24 with a 34-15 record, and 215 pounder, Kai Preisendorf, ranked #28 with a 41-13 record. All three returned competitors were 2022-23 State Qualifiers last season.

Further, the team will benefit from the infusion of talent from new players like 106 pounder, Isaak Reyes, 120 pounder, Kobe Negrete, 120/126 pounder, Gabriel Quintana, and 126 pounder, Nate Gonzales. All of have multiple years of experience and can step right into the Varsity line-up and help the team.

When looking to assign team captain, Coach Watts looks for qualities such as leadership, dedication, and passion for the sport. The captains for this season are still Currently being hashed out.
Building team chemistry and camaraderie is essential to Coach Watts' coaching philosophy. Encouraging the athletes to accept failure, viewing it as an opportunity to improve, is at the core of his message. Establishing team morale with team meals, competitions, off-season workouts, and team bonding activities is also in the mix.

Motivation is key to pushing the athletes to their full potential, and Coach Watts incorporates visual and verbal cues, as well as individual and team challenges. His goal is to have each athlete push themselves to reach beyond their expectations.

The biggest challenges in preparing for the season have been the unavoidable changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Coach Watts has had to adjust his approach to training and team dynamics to keep everyone safe and healthy. Despite these challenges, knowledge of the team's strengths and weaknesses is a big factor in the emphasis placed on individual skills and team performance. 

The team's schedule is full of tough opponents and games, and Coach Watts looks forward to the competition. His coaching style has remained the same, emphasizing technique, and adherence to the rules of the game. Communication on the court is key, and he emphasizes the mental aspects of the game for the team to reach their full potential.

The training and conditioning program has seen some changes and improvements, specifically transitioning practices from many hours in the wrestling room to more conditioning, drill and practice work on the mats. This has allowed the players to focus and fine tune their weaknesses, and build on their individual strengths. The mental and physical preparation is essential, as it allows the athletes to reach their goals.

Lastly, academics are at the forefront of the training program, and it comes hand-in-hand with athletics. Coach Watts is keen to ensure the athletes have the tools, academic support, and guidance for them to succeed both on and off the mats.

As the season progresses, Coach Watts looks forward to continued success, and thanks the fans and supporters of Redwood High School for their unwavering support. He encourages them to share the enthusiasm and positivity throughout the season, and with that, Redwood High School is only getting better.