Roncalli High School Wrestling Season Preview

As the winter sports season approaches, the Roncalli High School wrestling team is gearing up for what looks to be an exciting and promising season. With strong returning talent and a challenging schedule ahead, the Royals are determined to make their mark on the mat this year. One of the biggest strengths for the Royals this season is their returning players. Coach Shaun Richardson speaks highly of his top returning athletes, saying "We have 12 returning varsity wrestlers and 8 with semi-state experience. Three return that went to state last year: Peyton Schoettle (State Champ), Blake Getz (7th), and James Dozier." These wrestlers have proven their skill and determination in the past, and their experience in state-level competitions makes them valuable assets to the team. Their leadership and skill will undoubtedly make a huge impact in the Royals' pursuit of a 3A team state title. However, it's not just the returning athletes who will lead the team to success this season. Coach Richardson also has high hopes for some new players who are sure to make an immediate impact on the team. He mentions freshmen Carter Sanford and Gavyn Kemp as two of these rising stars who will be competing at the varsity level. With their talent and drive, they are sure to be valuable additions to the team. When it comes to team captains, Coach Richardson looks for players who lead by example. These individuals must be respected and admired by their teammates, showing dedication and determination on and off the mat. While the final decision on captains has not yet been made, Coach Richardson has his eye on a few players who are demonstrating these qualities. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial to the success of any athletic team. Coach Richardson is well aware of this and has a plan in place to ensure that his team works well together on and off the mat. He explains, "We do community service a few times a year." This not only helps build a bond between team members but also instills a sense of giving back and serving the community, which is a valuable lesson for young athletes. Motivation and pushing oneself to their full potential is a vital aspect of being a successful athlete. To achieve this, Coach Richardson emphasizes the importance of goal-setting and having a plan to reach those goals. He says, "We make goals and then a plan to reach those goals." This not only helps motivate the players but also keeps them focused and determined to achieve their goals.