The 2024 Reds Wrestling season is fast approaching, and the team is fired up to start the winter sports season with the goal of making a strong run at the state title. After a narrow and heart-wrenching loss for second place last year, the team is determined to improve and take home the big prize this season. In one of the most intense state competitions in recent memory, the Reds fell just half a point shy of second place, losing to Brush even though six of their ten state qualifiers earned medals. This close finish has only fueled the team’s drive as they prepare for another year of competition.
With the graduation of several key seniors, including several standout wrestlers, the Reds enter the 2024 season with a slightly younger roster. However, last year’s loss has created a sense of urgency and a deep hunger within the team to prove themselves. There’s a renewed determination, particularly from the juniors, who are eager to step up and fill the leadership gap left by the seniors from last year’s squad. As junior Dylan Paris, a two-year member of the team, said, “If people show up to practice and work hard, the season will go well.” Paris, who will be competing at 132 pounds this season, is optimistic about his individual goals and the team’s chances. His confidence is shared by many of the juniors, who will play a pivotal role in the team’s success.
The Reds are rich in talent, especially within their junior class. Last year, four juniors qualified for state and played a crucial role in the team’s overall performance, helping to create a tight-knit and competitive team atmosphere. The camaraderie within the team is stronger than ever, and it’s clear that the younger wrestlers are motivated to build on the foundation laid by their predecessors.
Looking ahead to the season’s toughest challenges, Paris acknowledges that a few specific duals and tournaments will test the Reds’ resilience. “I think Windsor dual along the Rez and Brush tri will be big challenges for us,” he said. The Reds are set to face some of the best teams in the state in these high-stakes matchups, but the squad is confident they can hold their own. Alongside these challenging duals, the team will compete in several prestigious tournaments, including the Northern Colorado Christmas Tournament and the Rapid City Invitational. These tournaments bring some of the most competitive high school wrestling programs in the region, providing the Reds with invaluable experience against top-tier talent.
One of the most exciting aspects of the season is the Reds’ trip to the prestigious Doc Buchanan Tournament in Clovis, California, on Jan. 2 and 3. Known as one of the most competitive high school wrestling tournaments in the West, the Doc Buchanan Tournament attracts some of the top nationally-ranked wrestlers in the country. The tournament is a chance for the Reds to prove themselves on a bigger stage, facing off against the best the nation has to offer. Junior Blake Hawkins, who placed second at the state tournament last year in the 106-pound weight class, is one of the select wrestlers chosen to represent the Reds at this prestigious event. Hawkins is looking forward to the opportunity to compete against some of the best in the country and gain exposure for his future aspirations. “Doc B. is one of the toughest tournaments in the country. It’s a great opportunity to wrestle the best and get recruited by colleges,” Hawkins said.
Hawkins had a tough loss in last year’s state finals against Drake VonBum from Severance High School, who defeated Hawkins by decision. However, Hawkins is using that experience as fuel for the upcoming season. “I’m excited for this year. I want to wrestle the best and beat the guys who beat me last year. I’ve worked hard to improve, and I’m ready to prove myself,” he said. His dedication and determination reflect the overall mentality of the Reds this year—they’re hungry, focused, and eager to make a statement.
While the team has a solid core of juniors, they also have strong senior leadership from Cal Sidwell and Brayden Betsworth. Both Sidwell and Betsworth qualified for state last year and bring years of experience to the team. As the only two seniors on the squad, they’ll be expected to help guide the younger wrestlers and lead by example both on and off the mat. Their experience at the state level will be invaluable, especially as the Reds look to make a deep run in the postseason.
The team’s first match of the season will be on Dec. 5 at home against Grandview. The Reds are hoping to start the season on a strong note with a victory, which would set the tone for the rest of the year. Following the Grandview match, the team will participate in several duals and tournaments, including their home duals and the Eaton Tournament on Feb. 1. This tournament, which will showcase some of the best wrestling talent in the area, will be a critical moment in the season for the Reds. From there, they will look to secure their spot at regionals and eventually make a run at the state tournament.
