By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
With the graduation of 11 seniors from last season’s team, Central will feature a slew of first-time starters eager to prove themselves.
“The kids returning have been a part of the program and have waited patiently to earn a varsity spot,” coach Michael Dalangin said.
Returning letter winners for the Bulldogs are Devontre Vaughn at 120 pounds, Tommy Turley and Michael Ritter both at 126, Luke Phelps at 132, Rogue Wilson 150, Cayden Hall at 165, Noah Phelps at 175, Ethan Games at 190 and Rashad Smith at 215.
Vaughn was 12-11 last season, while Wilson was 14-14.
“I have high expectations for the entire team,” Dalangin said.
Central has a slew of newcomers Dalangin has been happy to welcome aboard.
“We will have many new faces in our wrestling room,” he said. “We have numerous freshmen or kids wrestling for the first time.”
On the girls side, the Lady Bulldogs’ Jaidyn Pohlsander finished her junior season with a 32-9 record and was fourth at state at 110.
“She has goals to qualify and medal once again for her final season,” Dalangin said.
Maycee Cover and Kindrea Parrack also hope to emerge as state contenders.
“All three girls have the opportunity to win some tournaments this year and make a run for the big show in February,” Dalangin said.
Other returning Lady Bulldogs are Lilly Draughon at 120, Hannah Ballard at 125, Kindrea Parrack at 135) and Catalina Arteaga at 170.
“Our girls team continues to grow, and most importantly, the student-athletes who have been showing up truly want to be there and get better,” Dalangin said. “It is always exciting to see the new student-athletes who want to wrestle and join our program. The team is young, but they all have done so well facing adversity and getting reps in the practice room.”
Dalangin feels Central has upgraded its schedule.
“We have added different tournaments, which will be great competition in preparation for districts,” Dalangin said. “We will be bringing one Lady Bulldog to the Wonder Woman Tournament, both the boys and girls’ teams will go to the Lafayette Fred Ross Tournament, and most importantly both teams will be competing for the first time at the COC Tournament.”
