As a new season approaches, the anticipation of new beginnings appear. For the boys of Xavier’s wrestling team, the new season means another chance at a state victory. With several qualifiers last year, the team knows state is not a far-fetched dream. Even though they lost sophomore, and previous state qualifier, Ivan Thomas for most, if not all, of the season due to injury, they gained freshman Christian Stanek, who knows the taste of victory. Stanek won state for club last year, and has participated on a team that won the national team tournament.

“My big goals are to qualify for state and to place,” Stanek said.

It will be a long road to get there, as the season has just begun.

“I’m preparing for meets by practicing every day and working to improve myself and the team every practice,” Stanek said.

Constructive criticism from coaches and teammates is necessary for the team to do well. Senior exchange student from Mexico, JP Segura, believes it makes all the difference.

“Your teammates’ support and help during practice is what makes you better,” Segura said.

Stanek also believes support from teammates is key for the team to succeed.

“My teammates push me to get better. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” Stanek said.

Ryan Chambers is the head wrestling coach at Xavier and is accredited with good communication skills.

“My coaches are great,” Stanek said. “They tell me what I need to work on, and get me better prepared. They are great to be around.”

Their next meet is on Saturday, December 8, at Marion High School at 10 a.m.