The Harrisburg wrestling team opened a new season after finishing last year with a winning record. The Bulldogs are hoping to build on that success and make an even stronger run this winter, according to coaches and wrestlers.
The team returns five varsity starters, including key leaders including seniors Rocko Neal and Braxton Welge. The lineup also features several newcomers expected to make an immediate impact, including sophomore Conner Crowder and upcoming freshman Cooper Maddox.
In the lower weight classes, Harrisburg will rely heavily on Neal and junior Kenny Novy, both of whom posted strong seasons last year. “I think we could be really good this year if we all fully buy into what Coach Langley is telling us,” Novy said.
In the middle and upper weight classes, wrestlers such as Welge are expected to anchor the lineup and score important team points throughout the season.
Head coach Greg Langley returns after reaching 500 career wins last season and said the team has been putting in the work during preseason practices. Langley noted that the Bulldogs’ strengths include conditioning and depth, and he said the team’s main goal this season is to win the conference.
Harrisburg opened the season Dec. 3 with a dual meet against Fairfield, where the Bulldogs fell to the Mules. The team’s next competition is its first tournament of the season, scheduled for Dec. 6 in Benton. The Bulldogs are looking forward to a competitive season and hope to continue improving each week. With consistent effort and focus, Harrisburg believes it can reach its goals and
