As winter athletics kick into gear, the Wildkat wrestling team steps onto the mats with renewed focus, sharpened skills and a determination to make this season one of their strongest yet. After weeks of conditioning, drilling and early-morning practices, the team is ready to showcase the payoff of their commitment. The team’s coaches describe this year’s roster as one of the most disciplined and driven groups the program has seen, and the energy in the wrestling room reflects that intensity.
A major source of momentum this season comes from the leadership of the senior class. For the Wildkats, these seniors represent more than experience; they embody the culture and standard the underclassmen look up to. Many of them have been part of the program since freshman year, carrying with them four years of lessons learned from big wins, difficult losses and everything in between. It is inevitable that they have faced tough challenges throughout their journey that they’ve had to overcome.
“The toughest challenge for me was my knee surgery, but I’ve been overcoming it through rehab and I feel stronger than ever,” said senior Christien Damewood.
Their presence and perseverance has shaped the team’s identity, setting expectations for work ethic, accountability and unity. As they enter their final season, the seniors are motivated not only to succeed individually but also to elevate the entire team.
The team’s preseason preparation has already shown promising signs. Practices have been faster-paced and more technical, with wrestlers focusing on refining their setups, improving transitions on the mat, and building endurance for long matches. Head coach Jacob Bough emphasized versatility, encouraging athletes to strengthen both top and bottom positions while also developing reliable offensive attacks. With several returning varsity wrestlers alongside a wave of new talent, the Wildkats are assembling a well-balanced lineup across multiple weight classes..
Team chemistry also plays a key role in the early season success. Whether it’s the camaraderie in the wrestling room, shared goals or the constant push to make each other better, the Wildkats’ bond is clearly visible.
“This sport is an individual sport, yes, but the team aspects come in many different ways. Having great practice partners to train better, having other individuals buy in and be committed, and knowing that these wrestlers are and should always be considered family,” Bough said.
The seniors have stepped up to mentor younger teammates, helping them adjust to the intensity of high-school competition and guiding them through match strategy and mental toughness. David Conner, a senior wrestler, adds,
“The toughest challenge every year is just staying mentally focused all season, but I mentally prepare myself and others by saying I’m the best out here and no one works harder than me,” said senior David Conner. “That mentality is what separates me and my team from others, and ultimately what makes us win.” That sense of unity will be critical as the season progresses and the team faces tougher competition.
As the Wildkats look ahead to upcoming meets and tournaments, they carry with them a sense of purpose. Every practice, match and tournament becomes an opportunity to grow, not only as individual wrestlers but as a collective force representing their school. With senior leadership, strong coaching, and a team full of athletes hungry to prove themselves, the Wildkats are moving through the season ready to battle for every point and every match.
"Our goals never change from year to year. We get better every day and are expected to be leaders both on and off the mat and represent Kokomo the best we can," Bough said.