The 2023-2024 Manitou Springs High School wrestling season officially begins on Nov. 13, although athletes have been participating in open mat since September.
Both boys and girls can participate in wrestling, as they are separated into weight categories and individually compete against opponents.
Wrestling is an individual sport, but the team plays an important role in individual success. “Part of the success lies in the team; but then ultimately, it’s you against your opponent and that builds a better sense of ownership,” Paul Bonner, wrestling coach and art teacher at MSHS, said.
Two girls qualified for State last year with junior Abbigail Reeves placing 4th, and this has encouraged more girls to join the team this upcoming season. “When I started out freshman year, it was only Abbi and I, but each year we got more girls and we were all close in weight; so it’s really fun,” Kara Donegan (11 ) said.
The girls weren’t the only State qualifiers. There were six regional placers who are all returning to the team this year. “It’s exciting to see and brings positive stuff that we can build on as a team,” Bonner said.
While winning is the goal for every sport, each athlete hopes to gain valuable experiences and lessons for the real world. “It’s a little side bonus from all the hard work and learning the dedication commitment and hard work,” Bonner said.
Since wrestling is an individual sport, the team encourages each individual to reach their goals throughout the season. “You work hard and it’s really rewarding, especially when competing with the adrenaline and rush you get,” Donegan said.
Coaches and the team love seeing the individual aspect of wrestling and the work put in to improve as a team. “No other sport do you have people putting in extra time in and out of the weight room and wrestling room because whatever their results are turn into results for themselves and you get to see the team improve,” Bradyn Dowling (12) said.
The team is excited to spend another season in the wrestling room with each other and Coach Bonner, as they have made remarkable influences and memories they are excited to make this upcoming season. “I’m really excited for all the kids and all the hard work and dedication they’ve been putting in and we’ll have a great season,” Bonner said.
