Returning to the mats for the Cascade Champions for the 2022-2023 season are four state qualifiers that head coach Andy Giel expects to repeat similar results.
Vayden Moore qualified for state in the 126 pound weight class as a freshman last season, but will be taking on a new challenge this season as he’s jumping a class to the 138 pound weight class.
Joining Moore in the state qualifiers were Hayden Dowell in the 182 class, Cole West in the 220 class, and Dylan Warren in the heavyweight class.
Not only does Giel expect repeats from his leaders, he also expects a few more to meet that mark being that his squad is experienced throughout.
“I’m expecting to get more state qualifiers this year than we have before,” he said.
“This is the most experienced team we’ve ever had, and everyone is learning and excited. It’s been fantastic having the older guys help the younger guys understand everything.”
It isn’t an easy road to glory for the Champions as they compete against schools across the state that vary in size.
But Giel is confident in his wrestlers and their hard work.
“Our region is so vast in the size of schools that we go against, so it’s going to be difficult,” he said.
“These guys work hard, and I have no doubt they’ll do well this year.”