By SARA CASLER
Two young men stand face to face, just inches separating their well-built bodies. Fingers twitch as they wait for the referee’s call to begin the match. At the sound of the bell, the wrestlers toy with each other and then lunge. The battle has begun. Nine seconds later, it is over. Senior Joshua Khan has not only set a personal best, but has won his match, part of his record, 17-5.
The wrestling team has had a rough season, with a 5-10 record. This season has been the time for individuals to shine.
“Wrestling is [one of] the only high school sport[s] where you are competing in the middle of a gym, in front of a crowd, and are completely by yourself. It is by far one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports,” assistant coach Danny Mauro said.
On the lady’s team, sophomores Samantha Harris and Bailey Paul lead the team; Harris took first at the Eagle Classic at Edgewater and Paul placed fifth at States on Jan 21.
Mauro remains optimistic about the boys’ team as they head to districts and make work past the performance at metros.
“[I like] winning. I know I should not say that [as a coach], but hey, I like to win,” Mauro said.
The team attended Metro Finals on Jan 28, and placed 7th overall with outstanding performances from team captains Joshua Khan and senior Lee Haygood James.
For a video recapping the winter season, click here