Francis Howell North Wrestling: A Season of Champions, Culture, and Momentum
2025 Winter Season Recap Article Series
The 2025 wrestling season at Francis Howell North High School was more than just a string of victories and titles—it was a testament to years of dedication, culture-building, and the emergence of a program ready to stake its claim as one of the state’s most formidable. At the helm of this momentum shift is Coach Chris Brown, who led the Knights through one of the most successful seasons in recent memory.
With a 15-2 dual meet record, multiple team tournament championships, six state qualifiers, and a state champion in senior Wyatt Dannegger, the Knights delivered a season filled with energy, execution, and excellence.
Core Contributors Drive the Surge
This year’s standout success would not have been possible without the key performances of several athletes who consistently rose to the occasion.
Wyatt Dannegger was nothing short of spectacular. Capping off his high school career with a state title, Dannegger was the embodiment of grit and dominance on the mat. His leadership and poise helped drive the entire team forward.
Noah Brown, Lito Ledezma, Cole Dillon, Collin Conley, and Collin Costello also proved vital to the team’s incredible run. Each wrestler contributed in unique ways, whether by grinding out clutch wins in duals or securing points in high-stakes tournaments.
Collin Conley, who placed 6th at State, showed incredible development and resilience, proving himself as a big-stage competitor.
Coach Brown put it simply: “These guys set the tone. They didn’t just wrestle—they elevated the standard.”
Milestone Moments That Defined the Season
While the overall record speaks volumes, several key victories stood out as emotional and strategic turning points for the program.
Winning the Zumwalt East Tournament—their first tournament championship in many years—was a monumental moment. That performance was a resounding declaration that Francis Howell North wrestling was not just competitive—it was championship-caliber.
Equally significant was the team’s victory over rival Francis Howell, a perennial powerhouse and emotional benchmark on the Knights’ calendar. The dual meet brought intensity, but the Knights responded with control and composure.
“These wins validated the work we’ve put in over the years,” said Coach Brown. “It showed our guys that we belong among the best.”
Rising Stars Step Into the Spotlight
Beyond the seasoned veterans, this season also saw the emergence of new faces ready to carry the torch.
Both Collin Costello and Landon Diers grew into their varsity roles impressively, providing crucial depth during duals and tournaments. Their ability to adjust and perform under pressure gave the Knights an edge in close matchups.
“Watching them grow was one of the most rewarding parts of the season,” said Brown. “They went from contributors to competitors who could be counted on.”
As these underclassmen continue to develop, their early experience at the varsity level will serve as a key foundation moving forward.
Senior Class Leaves a Lasting Legacy
This season was particularly special because of its senior class, the largest graduating group in over 20 years. This wasn’t just a group of athletes; it was a class that defined what it means to be a Francis Howell North wrestler.
“They exemplified leadership, accountability, and effort,” said Coach Brown. “They set a cultural standard that younger athletes will be expected to follow.”
Whether it was their drive in practice, their leadership in meets, or their sportsmanship in defeat, these seniors left behind more than wins—they left a blueprint for excellence.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Every season has its share of setbacks, but this group met adversity with collective resolve. Whether it was recovering from injuries, bouncing back from tough losses, or facing pressure-filled environments, the Knights stayed true to their identity.
“The response to challenges is what defined this group,” Coach Brown explained. “They didn’t splinter—they came together.”
This unity, built on trust and respect, was a major factor in their sustained success throughout the season.
The Future Burns Bright
As the season wraps and seniors graduate, the future of the program remains remarkably bright. With four returning state qualifiers, the Knights enter the offseason with a strong competitive base and unmatched experience.
Coach Brown is especially excited about the addition of two incoming freshmen expected to make an immediate impact. “They’re talented and hungry,” he noted. “It’s going to be exciting to integrate them into the program.”
With the mix of seasoned competitors and promising newcomers, Francis Howell North has the talent, depth, and leadership to stay at the top for years to come.
Offseason Goals: Technical Precision
Looking ahead, the Knights will focus heavily on refining their technique. Despite a successful year, Coach Brown knows the margins at the state level are razor-thin.
“Now that we’ve built the program’s identity and developed the talent, it’s about fine-tuning the details,” he said. “We’ll be spending the offseason sharpening technique, expanding our situational awareness, and preparing our athletes for even deeper postseason runs.”
Offseason training and club opportunities will be critical, as returning wrestlers prepare to build on the momentum from 2025.
A Program Reborn
For years, Francis Howell North wrestling was waiting for a breakthrough season—a campaign that would announce its arrival as a top-tier program. That season came in 2025. Behind the leadership of Coach Brown, the strength of a committed senior class, and the emergence of hungry young talent, the Knights are no longer chasing legitimacy—they’ve earned it.
With a state champion on the record books, a culture of excellence taking root, and the promise of more to come, Francis Howell North isn’t just a program to watch—it’s a program to respect.
And if this year is any indication, the best is yet to come.
For more details, statistics, or information about the Francis Howell North wrestling program, contact the school's athletic department or follow their official updates online.
Share With