The success for the Washington Demon wrestling program has been well documented over the last 24 months. The past two seasons ended with the Demons owning bragging rights in the Southeast Conference, including an undefeated league slate last season. Washington posted a program-best 26-4 dual record last year.
Three juniors return for Washington who previously competed at the state tournament. Kyle Anderson is the most decorated returner for head coach Brent Van Weelden. Anderson is a two-time state qualifier who competed in the 120 pound weight division last season. He posted 33 wins and 13 losses during last season’s campaign, ending his sophomore year on the medal stand with an eighth place finish at the state tournament. This season, Anderson is schedule to compete at 132 pounds.
Andrew Waite and Trey Van Weelden were first time state qualifiers last season. Waite competed in the 113 pound weight division, recording 27 wins and 10 defeats. Waite is scheduled to wrestle in the 126 pound class this year. Van Weelden wrestled in the 138 pound sector last season, boasting 32 victories and 10 setbacks. He will also wrestle at a higher weight this season in the 152 pound section. Both Waite and Van Weelden earned second team all-conference honors for their performances last season, but failed to advance to medal round of the state tournament.
Michael Ellingson and Bryce Rickey are providing senior leadership for the squad this winter. Ellingson is adjusting to the 145 pound weight class after wrestling in the 138 pound division as a junior. Rickey is becoming accustom to a larger weight division as well, moving from 160 pounds as a junior to 170 pounds in his final high school wrestling season. The two are filling the holes left by graduates Brad Skuball and Alex Gonzalez.
The Demons’ wrestling season begins tonight in Victor, competing in a quadrangular versus Benton Community, Iowa Valley, and Hartwick-Ladora-Victor (HLV). Action on the mat begins at 6 p.m. at HLV High School.