Without question, the AHS wrestling program distinguished themselves this year by winning the district championship as well as the 3A Region I title.

Afterwards, AHS wrestlers went on to compete for the state title at the Tacoma Dome, placing in sixth place. Even though they came in sixth place, AHS wrestlers have high hopes to take first place at the state championship next year.

It isn’t just high talk and no walk though. AHS coaches hope to “toughen up” the players even more, assistant coach Mendro said. Each player is going to be expected to perform at an even higher performance level. There are plans to have a split practice regiment in order focus on varsity and junior varsity players equally.

Furthermore, AHS wrestlers are going to be practicing much more during season breaks in order to establish and maintain the amount of focus and energy needed for next year. For example, players like Jeremy Nygard ’16 are going to grow much more as individual players by attending wrestling camps and other programs this summer.

The success this year isn’t going unnoticed. Wrestling players from other neighboring schools and communities are taking heed of Eagle wrestling and it’s reputation. Because of this, coaches are hoping that more new and fresh players will turn out for next year.

Only time and pressure will tell if the Eagles can take Tacoma Dome by storm next year.

Photo provided by The Herald