The wrestling season is under way and the Patriots are gearing up for a long season ahead. Their tryouts have begun and will determine their lineup.

The wrestling team has 13 different weight classes and when trying out for the team, students try out for a specific weight class. Tryouts consist of conditioning, running and wrestling drills/simulations for current players and other students trying out. Due to limited numbers of students trying out there are normally weight classes the team can’t fill. The Patriots end up having to forfeit these weight classes during their matches if the opposing team has a player in that weight class.

Returning to the team this year are seniors Ben Bloch and Henry Wolley and juniors Eric Liau and Jason Liau. Bloch wrestles in the 113 weight class, Wolley wrestles in the 160 slot, Jason Liau wrestles in the 118 spot and Eric Liau wrestles in the 106 weight class. So far only Bloch has been named captain and he will look to lead the team to a successful season. Bloch said, “It’s a long season, but we are ready to go and are ready to have a good year. After tryouts end we are going to take the season one match at a time.”

Last year Wolley made an early exit in the playoffs, but looks to make a run this year. Jason Liau placed at states and looks to take home a championship. Eric Liau went 41-0 on the year and won states for the 106 pound weight class. Eric Liau said, “It was an awesome experience and I’m hoping for another good year this year.”

The wrestling season is not one to be taken lightly. The workouts and practices are long and tiring, but are necessary to get the players ready for the matches where they will be up against some of the best wrestlers in the county.

The Patriots will turn to their strong group of upperclassmen to lead them this season, and hopefully take them far later in the year.