Wrestling team starts out season with win in Polson

By JP EDGE

Hungry Horse News

The Columbia Falls wrestling team started out on a high note, as the Wildcats won the Owen Invitational in Polson over the weekend. Coach Jessie Schaeffer has high expectations for the season, and keeps discipline strong in the wrestling room.

“We just need to set the bar high, and we hope to reach those goals,” Schaeffer said at last Wednesday’s practice. “I know we’re going to fill those gaps.”

While last year’s MatCats had excellent final performances from wrestlers Isaiah Roth, Lucas Thacker, Josh Betram and Justin Windauer, who placed second at the final state meet, many of the veterans from last year will not be returning this season. Windauer will be the only returning wrestler with experience on the podium.

The team will still be led by a strong core of veterans who should help with coaching the less experienced freshman, which are many. Coach Schaeffer was pleased by the amount of turnout they have this season, the next step will be putting them in the right positions.

The seniors this year will include Rowdy White, Josh Price, Orion Barta, Colton Hogan and Logan Speed.

One senior who will not be returning this year is Tai Allen, who was recently in a serious car accident in October, which left him severely injured. He is still not sure if he will return to be an assistant coach.

Schaeffer has high hopes for his young squad.

“I think we need to give the younger guys some mat time and the right ones will rise through the ranks,” Schaeffer said.

The top placers in Polson for the Wildcats were: 120: Dylan Delorme first place over Hannah Hurst (Hamilton); 138: Orion Barta second place to Jason Davis (Corvallis); 145: Justin Windauer, second to Trae Thilmony (Thompson Falls); Third place: 126: Tyler Gilfry over Gavin Bauman (Frenchtown High School).

The Cats also had several fourth, fifth and sixth place finishes.