By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
Joplin coach Jeremy Finley is counting on a strong mindset and experience to be a strength of the Eagles and Lady Eagles.
“Joplin kids are always tough and that’s something we hang our hat on,” Finley said. “Even when we might not be the best technicians, we expect to be the tougher team and give ourselves a chance every time we’re on the mat. Combine that with depth that we haven’t had in the past, that’s going to be what we lean on this year.
“(We’re) very excited for the season,” he added. “We have the chance to be competitive. We can’t afford to be complacent with where we finished last year. A lot of us had a small taste of success at (Districts), but at the end of the day it didn’t end the way we wanted. We have to be ready to bring a lunch pail mindset into the room every day and bring an excited energy to practice.”
Toryn Jones at 144 pounds and Brennan Washington at 285 were both one win from making the Class 4 State Tournament last season.
“Expecting big things,” Finley said of Jones. “(Washington is) just scratching the surface of his potential.”
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John Burke (150) has been in the Eagles’ lineup since his freshman year.
“(We’re) expecting to see John take the next step on the mat and in a leadership role,” Finley said.
Finley appreciates the presence of Johnny Williams (190, 215) and Josiah Hazelwood (190, 210).
“Johnny (has) stepped up to fill lineup needs and came up big. Great guy to have in the practice room, makes everyone better. Josiah (is) another guy that does whatever is asked. Tough kid who is starting to fit the mold of a wrestler.”
Finley noted Nick Tarr (138-144) “worked hard all off season (and) has improved leaps and bounds.”
Freshman Lucas Allen figures to make an immediate impact at 106.
“Lucas is a decorated kids club wrestler,” Finley said. “We expect Lucas to step into the practice room and really elevate the level of competition in the lower weights right away.”
On the girls’ side, Erika Washom (135, 140), Mya Ndedi-Ntepi (155), Amy Kessler (145) and Illana Burtrum (190) lead the Lady Eagles.
“Our success is going to hinge on our core group of kids stepping into that leadership role and the younger group stepping into the high school room ready to get better every day,” Finley said.
