By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
Joplin features a returning state qualifier in sophomore Lucas Allen and a pair of seniors the Eagles feel will emerge as state contenders this season.
“I expect our seniors, Toryn Jones and Josiah Hazelwood, to make some noise, as well as Lucas,” coach Jeremy Finley said.
Allen compiled a 21-11 record as a freshman at 106 pounds. He earned a state berth by winning his first two matches at districts and finishing fourth.
At the COC Tournament, Allen ran into eventual state champion Ryzen Isringhausen, of Branson, and state qualifier Corbin Massey, of Republic, and lost both matches.
Hazelwood posted a 25-11 mark as a junior at heavyweight. He won his first two matches at districts, but finished a victory shy of making it to state.
Hazelwood was 4-1 and a semifinalist at the COC Tournament,
Jones went 24-12 as a junior at 144. He, too, was one win short of State, as he lost a 7-5 decision in a bubble-match at districts.
Sophomore Andrew Burke was 17-20 as a sophomore at 132 last year, while Andrew Easterline was 10-13 as a freshman at 175.
Newcomers to the Eagles’ lineup will include Eliah Rizzo, Gabe Kabutha, Gryphon Price and Nick Tarr
On the girls side ,Joplin has bid adieu to Erika Washom, who was the program’s first state placewinner last season. The Lady Eagles’ numbers should be in double figures, Ilannah Burtrum and Amy Kessler lead the list of returnees.
“Things are looking better for our girls program,” Finley said. “We are expecting 10-15 girls out this year.”
Joplin will serve as host of the COC Tournament this season for the first time. The Eagles’ tournament trail will also take them to Bentonville, Arkansas, Hickman Mills, Republic and Columbus, Kansas.