Wolverines Dominate Dual Matches, Show Promise for Season Ahead

The Polk County wrestling team kicked off its dual match season in impressive fashion, sweeping both Madison and Crest on Wednesday evening. The Wolverines defeated Madison with a score of 47-31 before closing the night with a commanding 65-14 victory over Crest. This strong start has raised expectations for the team as they aim for success at the state level.

Head coach Mark Emory, while pleased with the victories, emphasized the need for continued improvement. “We’ve still got a lot to work on,” he stated. “We’ve got to work to get better every day.” Emory, in his first season as head coach, has a deep understanding of the team, having previously served as an assistant. His experience positions him well to guide the Wolverines as they strive for excellence.

The team showcased their skills with notable performances from several wrestlers. Liam Jackson and Zalen McCraw each secured victories by falls, while other team members achieved wins through a combination of forfeits and on-mat decisions. Last season, the Wolverines narrowly missed reaching the 1A West Regional final, and with several seasoned competitors returning, they are poised for a strong season.

Among the returning talent are wrestlers with significant experience, including Amon Villarreal and Styler Blackwell, both of whom have over 100 career wins. The team also includes promising athletes such as Brody Wolfe, Jaxtyn Virgil, Zach McCraw, Cole Huntley, and Connor Ahlert. Despite the offseason departure of state runner-up Efrain Rivera to South Carolina, the Wolverines possess a solid foundation to build upon.

Emory expressed confidence in his team’s determination, stating, “They’re determined to win, and we think we can. We think we’re one of the top teams in the state in 3A.” He highlighted the importance of getting the football players in shape and maintaining consistent daily practice to achieve their goals.

The Wolverines will return to the mat on Saturday, hosting the Wolverine Duals. Competing teams include South Caldwell, East Henderson, Lake Norman, Andrews, and Kings Mountain. This upcoming event presents another opportunity for the team to showcase their abilities and further solidify their standing in the conference.

As the season progresses, the Polk County wrestling team remains focused on their goals, eager to demonstrate their capabilities and compete at the highest levels. With a promising start and a commitment to improvement, the Wolverines are ready to make their mark this season.