PREVIEW: State medalist Huston to lead Midland squad

     Midland brings several experienced wrestlers into the upcoming season with hopes of posting a winning season in dual meets.

     Any conversation about the Eagles’ potential this season has to start with junior Damon Huston, who posted a 46-2 record and finished third in the state at 106 pounds in Class 1A a year ago. Huston is likely to wrestle at 120 pounds this year.

     But the Eagles also have three wrestlers back who placed in the Class 1A sectional meet last season. Junior Carson Hunter, who figures to wrestle at 152 this year, was third; while senior Trevor Fitzpatrick (195) and junior Cayden Miller (160) were fourth.

     Rounding out the list of seven returning letter-winners are senior Jeremy Lafrenz (220), and juniors Lucas Ervin (132) and Cael Eganhouse (285).

     In all, the Eagles have 14 wrestlers out for this year’s team.

     “We have a hard-working group of kids, with about half having a fair amount of experience,” second-year head coach Casey Huston said. “We have a pretty good group of freshmen. We will still have a hard time filling all the weights.”

     Coach Huston said traditional powerhouse Lisbon, with another strong lineup returning, is the favorite in the Tri-Rivers Conference. For the Eagles, the goal will be steady improvement throughout the season.

     “We will focus on high tournament placements,” Huston said. “Winning half of our duals would be a win, if we give up two-plus forfeits per dual.

     “In order for any success to happen, it will take kids staying healthy, and dedication from the kids and also from the coaches.”

     Assistant coaches are Rod Gravel, T.J. Bowen and Chance Shelton.