The SHS wrestling team hit the ground running this year. After placing fourth out of 13 teams in the John Hurrle Invitational tournament at Arsenal Tech on Nov. 23, the team is looking better than they did last season, according to senior wrestler Kyven Carter.

“I think we’re actually a lot more solid than last year,” Carter said.

The wrestlers have high expectations for the team as the season continues. According to junior wrestler Luke Goodwin, the competition is going to struggle against SHS throughout this season because of their skill level. But Goodwin isn’t the only one with high hopes.

“We really trust ourselves,” senior wrestler Simon Mpole said. “I think we will do really well.”

Mpole proved this by starting off the season with a first place victory in the Arsenal Tech tournament.

Although the team lost many senior leaders from last year, the current seniors have been able to step up and take on leadership roles. Carter, Mpole, Josh Moore and Khua Tin Thang have all been able to emerge as leaders this year for the Cards.

“It’s easier to lead being a senior this year,” Carter said.

After having a few wrestlers work their way up to semi-state last season, SHS wrestling is looking to repeat that success or maybe even go further. According to Goodwin, the regional, semi-state and state tournament will be the focus for the team all season. 

The Cards ended with a loss on Dec. 5 as they took on Franklin Community for their first home match of the season. This was one of only two tournaments that the Cards compete at home this season after being at home four times last year. To add onto those two home meets, SHS will also be hosting the sectional tournament this season on Feb. 1. 

“A lot of our guys are more comfortable because they get to wrestle at home (for sectional),” Carter said.