The Road to State

Okay, so I am not exactly keeping up on this. Between practice, seeding meetings, Josh's baseball practice ( yes I coach that too) our wrestling club, and grading time has a way of slipping away. So here we are undefeated in league, and looking back at league finals there is a mixture of excitement and some sadness. Excitement that we had 12 in the finals during a year in which everyone thought we were going to fall on our face,and sadness watching kids I have had the pleasure to coach and watch grow up start on the road to their last match as a husky. It was awesome to see the young kids like Vincent Herrera and Jeremy Osborn win their first league title, and satisfying to see Daniel Flores, Thomas Morales defend last years crowns, and set their sights on besting their brothers. Tough to watch the two freshman who have weathered all the storms and challenges to stay on the top line all year lose in two very close matches. But, I didn't know how to feel watching Mitchell Chatfield break the grip of his brother's shadow in becoming the next league champion in that family. Or watching Mike Ramos go from a little kid who told me in a wrestling room a long time ago he would wrestle for me, how about watching Ty (yes that's his name) Olson grow from a 130 pounder to a state ranked 215, knowing how hard he has worked and how much he deserves it. Maybe a little heartbreak as Joe Talarico lost in a referee's bad decision, or Jeff Vargas coming back after a broken ankle to place second. I did feel a little envy as Greg Vargas took his older brothers advice and kept wrestling becoming a two time league champion and MVP of the league. I thought Kent, what if?" Now I have the dual meet stuff in front of me and will begin to prepare for those that we may see, and have already done the scouting for CIF individuals. We have a lot of youngsters that need to begin to come into the club and wrestle on Monday and Wednesday, the cost will be low $15 a month, but it will be invaluable. Thanks to everyone who has helped make this year a success so far,but we have a long way to go. Only a handful know how difficult this year has been , both emotionally and physically. I would like to thank ( and I will at the banquet) Scott Stragier who over 20 years ago kicked me in the butt, and continues to be my coach and my best friend. I will miss the rides, the hotels, but mostly the remember when stories. This is not one of those moments that I want to remember. We have a great shot at another title so come on out to Alta Loma and cheer us on this Saturday.