By: Donovan W. Mann – donovanm@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – Humboldt High School wrestling looking to experience as the boys and girls programs continue to build.
Wrestling is a big sport across the state of Iowa. In the Humboldt community there is arguably no bigger sport. The 2020-2021 teams look to build on the tradition of success that is ingrained the program.
Humboldt boys wrestling returns 16 wrestlers that competed in the varsity level at some point last season. The Wildcats fielded a successful team that managed to advance three individual wrestlers to the state tournament, two of which will return this season (senior Colton Goodell and sophomore Jace Goodell). They also made it to the team dual tournament and were the North Central Conference champions last season.
Head Coach Chad Beaman says there is some key spots open that the team will need to be filled. He also says that some wrestlers will not be in their preferred weight class to the start the season as everyone attempts to get to the appropriate weight.
Humboldt’s developmental program give the coaching staff confidence in their ability to fill those spots. Coach Beaman credits the developmental Wildcat Club that has “outstanding numbers” every season. He says that it is important to have a good club in wrestling more than other sports to develop the future wrestlers. Wildcat club starts at Pre-K and goes all to 8th grade.
Humboldt High School boys wrestling will start their season with a road dual on Dec. 3 against Estherville Lincoln Central. Then on Dec. 4 the school will host the Joe Fitch Tournament.
Humboldt girls wrestling is entering their second season as an individual program. This year there is 18 girls who are participating in the program. Among those are 10 returners who helped the team place seventh at the state tournament. Individually current senior Kendal Clark grabbed a state championship in the 170 weight class and Tie Woeste placed 8th in the 195 class.
Coach Beaman says that last season their was 15 girls who finished out the season and he credits them for taking a chance on it. He says that last seasons success and turnout has encouraged more girls to get involved this season.
Humboldt girls wrestling opened up their season against LeMars on Monday, Nov. 30. In the dual they picked up nine victories in 15 matches.
Humboldt High School wrestling season is here. KHBT 97.7 the Bolt will once again be part of the coverage with plans to broadcast a total of five duals or triangulars, four regular season tournament and all postseason action that Humboldt wrestling is a part of.