As we approach the end of February, I am often taken aback by the flurry of activities our youth engage in throughout the winter. I am also in constant awe at the heart and dedication I see in our student-athletes. Our wrestlers are no exception! Wrestling is more than just a sport—it's a testament to mental and physical strength. As young athletes step onto the mat, they face the challenge of competing against others and the fierce battle within themselves to push through limits, conquer doubts, and embody true grit.
The sport requires an unwavering commitment to both training and discipline. From early morning practices to late-night weight management, wrestlers must balance academics, social life, and intense workouts. It's a grueling journey that tests the resilience of each individual.
Minneapolis Junior High Wrestling Coach Marsh stated, “The junior high wrestling season is fast and furious, but the kids improved tremendously over the short season. From beginners to kids who have wrestled since they were five, everyone got better and learned valuable lessons that only sports can teach. We are extremely proud of their progress and look forward to them wrestling in high school.”
There is no question that the Minneapolis Junior High Wrestlers exhibited Lion Pride this past week at the League Tournament. The girls' team finished 2nd place—with only 6 points from being 1st and the boys’ team claimed the 2025 NCAA championship! Both represent significant accomplishments for our program this year and deserve to be celebrated and honored!
The following are some of the standout performances!
Girls’ Junior High Wrestling Team:
Bristol Copple, 8th Grade, 1st place in the 105 lb. weight class
Tye Malberg, 7th Grade, 3rd place in the 110 lb. weight class
Kaitlynn Fruits, 8th Grade, 2nd place in the 120 lb. weight class
Hayley Parks, 8th Grade, 3rd place in the 132 lb. weight class
Marina Arnold, 7th Grade, 2nd in the 175 lb. weight class
Boys’ Junior High Wrestling Team:
Cooper Courson, 8th Grade, 2nd place in the 100 lb. weight class
Ty Flax, 7th Grade, 2nd place in the 80 lb. weight class
Mason Hauck, 7th Grade, 2nd Place in the 90 lb. weight class
Damon Schwaiger, 7th Grade, 3rd place in the 100 lb. weight class
Kavyan Barreras, 7th Grade, 2nd Place in the 105 lb. weight class
Layton Christensen, 8th Grade, 2nd place in the 110 lb. weight class
Troy Monts, 7th Grade, 2nd place in the 115 lb. weight class
Braxston Hicks, 7th Grade, 1st Place in the 120 lb. weight class
Blayde Pagel, 8th Grade, 1st Place, in the 138 lb. weight class
Kenyon Deronnet, 8th Grade, 2nd Place in the 145 lb. weight class
Reece Abell, 8th Grade, 1st place in the 152 lb. weight class
Peyton Villalpando, 8th Grade, 1st place in the 175 lb. weight class
Kyle McCary, 8th Grade, 2nd Place in the 215 lb. weight class
Bryce Zelenka, 8th Grade, 1st Place in the 215 lb. weight class
When asked what separates a good wrestler from a great wrestler, MJSHS Head Wrestling Coach Hauck stated, “Mental toughness and grit! Wrestlers must dig deep, knowing that each match demands not only physical endurance but also focus. The pressure is immense.”
But it’s not just the athletes who bear this weight. Coaches, parents, and the broader community are key to shaping a wrestler’s journey. Coaches spend countless hours preparing strategies, motivating their athletes, and teaching life lessons about perseverance. Parents, too, offer unwavering support, often sacrificing time and resources to ensure their kids have the opportunity to compete and grow.
The North Ottawa County Public Schools’ Community rallies behind these young wrestlers, cheering them on and encouraging their relentless pursuit of excellence. Lion Pride is exhibited throughout every match, so much so that it leaves this author eager to see what these young athletes will do in the coming years as high school students. For now, “Congratulations on a job well done!”