During last season, three boys’ wrestlers qualified for state, one returning to the team this year. This season, many underclassmen are in a position to move into the varsity spots. With many freshmen having gone through the school’s little league wrestling program, some newcomers are already experienced in the sport of school wrestling. Previous state qualifier, sophomore Mason Apple hopes to return to state this season, and is currently preparing for the teams first home duel on Dec. 4 against St. Charles West.

“I’m cautiously optimistic,” coach Chris Brown said. “I’m hoping our varsity spots will rise up to the task.”

With this being the second year of a separate girls wrestling team at FHN, the team is continuing to struggle with gathering a sufficient amount of wrestlers within each weight class. During the previous season, not all of the wrestlers were able to make it through the entire season as many suffered injuries. This season has had an increased interest in the team overall and new wrestlers have decided to try out. The team is working hard training to prepare for the Wonder Woman Tournament on Jan. 4.

“[Last year] was definitely an experiment,” Brown said. “I’m excited for this year and I hope the team rises excitement for wrestling.”