Last year in post-season, the Wildcats conditioned with the Rocklin Thunder. During these conditioning sessions, it became clear to the Wildcats they needed to up their game. Due to this, conditioning intensity has increased for this season.

With practices 10 hours a week and practices during Thanksgiving break for 3 hours a day, the wrestling team prepares themselves for the upcoming season. Coming off last year’s season with three wins and six losses, the Wildcats are striving for a better record this season.

To start practices, everyone runs a lap around the mats. Afterwards, they do dynamic stretches, which is actively moving while stretching. Before they condition, they work on take downs.

Captain Cole Kachmar keeps his athletes focused by making sure they are on track.

“I always make sure my team is listening and doing what they’re supposed to, but as for me I just put in my headphones and get in my zone. No one can stop me once I’m in my zone,” Kachmar said.

According the team’s captain, the team’s strength this year is their ability to work as one and be unified. They also help each other when needed. As for their weaknesses, when one of them loses, it gets in everyone’s head and they all lose.

The Wildcats have their first match Nov. 28  against Rocklin. The match is at home in the main gym at 7 p.m.

“I think the team’s prospects are really good this year; the only thing missing is a sea of maroon to support us against Rocklin,” Ryan Murphy said.

by: EMC COWLES