Ponca Wrestling 2025 Season Recap: New Leadership, Renewed Culture, and a Promising Future
The 2025 wrestling season was nothing short of transformative for Ponca High School, thanks to a fresh vision brought in by first-year Head Coach CJ Geary. Taking over as the third head coach in three years, Coach Geary inherited a program that had struggled with consistency, both on and off the mat. But with grit, energy, and unwavering commitment from his athletes, Ponca Wrestling has started a new chapter — one defined by resilience, growth, and a fierce sense of team identity.
What started as a rebuilding year turned into a historic season, filled with hard-fought dual wins, breakout performances, and a second-place tournament finish that marked the best in school history.
Key Contributors: Building the Foundation
Coach Geary didn’t have to look far for leadership and work ethic — it was already present in his roster. But key contributors emerged in powerful ways, both in performance and character.
Freshman Cole Bostwick made an immediate impact, earning the nickname “a hammer” for his fearless dominance on the mat. Despite being new to high school wrestling, Cole “just went out there and took care of business” with a poise well beyond his age.
Sophomore Casey Chadwick became the embodiment of perseverance. Known as “the warrior,” Chadwick was never out of a match, even when trailing big. His fighting spirit inspired his teammates and lifted the team in clutch moments.
Junior Charlie Watkins, dubbed “the bouncer” by his coach, showcased unmatched versatility by jumping weight classes — sometimes giving up as much as 30 pounds — and still finding his way to the win column.
Seniors Heydon Velez and Connor Schamp offered the kind of leadership that any new coach dreams of. They were dependable, vocal, and mature leaders who took younger teammates under their wings. Their commitment helped build a winning culture.
“These guys were more than just wrestlers — they were tone-setters,” said Coach Geary.
Exceeding Expectations
In his own words, Coach Geary described the season as going “way better than I had originally expected or planned.” Given the team’s recent instability, no one would have been surprised by another tough season. But instead, Ponca posted a 7-6 dual record, a sharp turnaround from the 3-10 mark the year before.
And perhaps the biggest moment came after the holiday break: a 2nd place finish at the Pender Dual Tournament — the highest a Ponca wrestling team has ever placed at a tournament. It was a moment that validated the team’s hard work and marked a definitive turning point.
“That result changed the kids' mindset,” Geary said. “It gave them the belief that they could compete — and win — at a high level.”
Turning Points and Team Growth
Returning from winter break often presents challenges for high school teams — conditioning, motivation, and rhythm can all suffer. But Ponca came out flying in January, using the Pender tournament as fuel for the rest of the season.
Coach Geary noted that wrestlers like Bostwick, Chadwick, and Watkins grew significantly in both confidence and skill as the season went on. Whether it was racking up more wins or embracing greater responsibility within the lineup, their development helped shift the ceiling of the entire team.
“We had young guys growing into leadership roles fast,” said Geary. “They didn’t wait their turn — they earned it.”
Responding to Adversity
Every wrestling season comes with adversity — tough losses, injuries, and pressure situations are part of the sport. For a team in transition, the challenges were even steeper. But Ponca didn’t blink.
Coach Geary praised the team’s "keep fighting" attitude, highlighting their ability to give 110% regardless of the circumstances. That toughness didn’t just lead to more wins — it helped form the identity of a program that’s learning how to respond to difficulty with unity and purpose.
“This group didn’t back down. They kept pushing,” said Geary. “That’s the culture we’re trying to build.”
Senior Impact: Legacy in Leadership
While Ponca’s future looks bright, much of its success this year came thanks to the foundation laid by its senior class, especially Heydon Velez and Connor Schamp. In a year filled with change, they could have coasted or disengaged. Instead, they doubled down.
“The seniors brought a lot of leadership and bravery,” said Geary. “They could have shut the door with it being their third head coach in three years. But instead, they leaned in.”
They helped create a supportive, hard-working room that made younger athletes feel valued and focused. Their selfless approach not only sets the tone for 2025 but will echo in seasons to come.
Looking Ahead: The Radar Awaits
With a new culture taking hold and a core of tough, experienced wrestlers returning, Coach Geary is already looking forward to what comes next.
“We’re going to be on the radar next season,” he said confidently. “We’ve got guys that are going to dominate, and I believe we’ll turn even more heads as we push toward the second half of the season.”
One clear goal is qualifying wrestlers for the state tournament, something that’s within reach given the team’s current trajectory. And as they continue building a reputation for hard-nosed wrestling and resilience, Ponca may soon become a powerhouse in their division.
Offseason Focus: Strength, Speed, and Sharpening Skills
The offseason is where elite programs separate themselves, and Coach Geary has a clear plan for how Ponca will use the months ahead.
“We’re looking to get stronger, faster, and make each other better,” he said. That means time in the weight room, refining techniques, and improving situational awareness on the mat. With a roster full of athletes who are hungry and coachable, that kind of development seems all but guaranteed.
Where to Follow Ponca Wrestling
While Coach Geary is still compiling detailed stats, he’s made it clear that he’s happy to share team data and results with anyone interested. He encourages supporters to reach out directly and follow the team’s progress as they continue to grow.
Conclusion: From Rebuilding to Resurgence
Ponca Wrestling’s 2025 season was about more than just wins and losses — it was about building something sustainable. With a new leader at the helm, a tight-knit group of athletes buying into a shared vision, and a clear trajectory toward competitive excellence, the program is finally on firm footing.
Coach CJ Geary and his squad have planted the seeds of a wrestling culture rooted in toughness, accountability, and belief. And as the offseason begins, there’s no doubt: Ponca is on the rise — and the best is yet to come.
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