With the Cannon Falls wrestling season starting to heat up, many families and fans are excited to see how the boys’ season progresses. Placing third overall in their first tournament on Saturday the 2nd of December in Edina, the boys and their fans are optimistic for a strong introduction to the 2017-2018 season. Edina’s tournament was a great start for many of the wrestlers, such as Cooper Peterson, Erwin Strelow, and Hayden Strain, who all got first in their weight class. Peter Fitterer and Dylan Rohr placed second, Chris Modrak placed third, and Levi Anderson placed fifth, giving all of these wrestlers an incredible start in the launch of their season. However, there are some setbacks the boys are facing.

Not having a full team is one of their biggest problems. With forfeits at 182, 195, and heavy weight, these add up to 21 points lost just from not having enough people to fill their places. The recruitment process is a slow one, and has been going on for quite a few years. Their loss on Tuesday the 12th, against Zumbrota-Mazeppa, was rough, only winning about half as many points, but they don’t let losses get in the way of their drive for a win. The boys’ outlook on their season is hopeful for both new recruits, and strong improvements for those looking to get better.

As Strelow puts it, “I think our team will do well this year. We have lots of strong individuals and during practice we all make each other better.” Their captains, Hayden Strain, Dylan Rohr, and Peter Fitterer, are motivating their teammates to prepare for matches in strenuous practices, and improve on themselves for the betterment of the team. Agreeing with Strelow, Fitterer says, “We are always trying to improve our wrestling skills during wrestling practice and pushing each other to give it our all in every kind of situation, especially when it comes to our physical and mental capabilities.” Through hard work in practices and on the mats, they won’t let their setbacks restrict them from a great season.

Losing is a part of the sport in wrestling, just like in many other activities. However, the effort shown by these wrestlers sets them ahead of the pack. With the team bond they share, and the love of the sport, their season will be a great one, and with what capitan Hayden Strain pointed out, “By working hard and having fun at the same time,” they plan on also making it enjoyable too. Everyone looks forward to see what happens in the future, and are positive that it will be a remarkable year.