North’s wrestling team has certainly proven to be excellent over the past few years. But what about this season? Is North going to continue maintaining their pedestal within the top 15 wrestling teams of Georgia?
Wrestling consists of two types: dual wrestling and traditional wrestling. Dual wrestling is where our team is against another team, whereas traditional wrestling consists of individuals in each weight class, and they advance based on where they place.
Last season, the boys dual wrestling team placed second at regionals, qualifying for the state tournament,
and placed 16th place. The girls dual team placed third at regionals; unfortunately, they were unable to qualify for state since only the top two would move on.
The wrestling team has one returning state champion, Artemis Eaton, who placed first at state. Furthermore, they have several returning state qualifiers: Tyler Coulter and Colt Snook.
Even though they only have a few returning state qualifiers, both wrestling teams are composed of hardworking and talented wrestlers. Jaya Walker, who was close to qualifying last year, Whitney Smith, Mackenzie Lucas, Will Bales, Chris Lee and Landon Goudy are all returning wrestlers who have proven themselves and are expected to do great things this year.
Travis Jarrard, head coach for both the girls and boys wrestling teams, hopes both teams are able to qualify for state duals The boys have qualified for the state duals, but for the girls, this would be the first time. However, progress of the girls wrestling time is clear since the previous year they placed sixth.
The athletes go through rigorous training during the season, meeting twice every single day. In the morning, they have weightlifting practice from 7 a.m. and after school, they have regular practice from 4 to 6 p.m. Same as any athlete, they are expected to show up, work hard and have persistence.
North’s wrestling team is composed of a versatile group of wrestlers. Although they had their fair share of ups and downs these past few years, the wrestling team is looking forward to a great season.
