PREVIEW: Individual potential to be key for Monti

     There are plenty of individuals with plenty of high hopes as the Monticello High School wrestling team begins its 2017-18 season.

     The Panthers have 17 wrestlers out for the team, including eight returning letter-winners.

     Leading the way is Chase Luensman, a junior who has reached the state tournament twice, placing fifth last year. Luensman went 32-5 a year ago.

     “We return a lot of wrestlers from last year, and we have a strong freshman class coming in with experience,” ninth-year coach Ryan Luensman said. “Chase Luensman is a returning state medalist and is looking to advance higher this year. Lake Stahlberg (a junior) is working to be healthy and make a big impact as well.”

     The team returns four seniors: Gavin Holub, Tyler Kuper, Thomas Broderick and Andrew Wall. Two sophomores return as well: Alaina Sunlin, who became the first Monticello girl to reach a district tournament; and Mason Reuter. Kain Luensman is a freshman who could be a factor right away.

     “We have a solid group with a lot of upside potential, but we need to stay healthy and keep a growth mindset,” the coach said. “We are focusing on working together as a team to help everyone achieve their individual goals.”

     Luensman said he individual improvement will be more of an emphasis than team scores this season.

     “My only concern is helping everyone improve each and every day,” coach Luensman said. “I can’t control the numbers we have on the team, so winning duals with open weights can be very difficult. As a program we want our student athletes to be strong on the mat, so they can be strong in the outside world.

     “The kids we have are working hard and have the right mental attitude to improve.”

     West Liberty, the coach said, will be one of the top opponents in the River Valley Conference this season.

     Luensman is assisted by Chuck Luensman, Casey Reyner, Jordan Richardson and Luke McDonald.