High hopes for Reardan wrestling

REARDAN–The Screaming Eagles open the 2022-23 wrestling season with 20 athletes on the roster, several of whom competed in last year's state tournament.

First year head coach Justin Neufeld praised his team for their cohesiveness, strong work ethic and positive attitude.

"This year you're going to see hard-nosed wrestling," he said. "With the experience we have, I expect we will be strong again this year."

Neufeld reserved special praise for team leaders JC Merriott, Conner Kline, Preston Neufeld, Vaea LaMoureaux and Tristin Burril.

"I think we can win regionals with this group of kids," Neufeld said. "There are a lot of bright spots on this team."

Neufeld replaced longtime coach Rick Perleberg who retired after being a cornerstone of the program since 1999, and head coach for the last seven years.

"Perly showed us what Reardan wrestling means," Neufeld said. "We are going to continue what he started and maintain the standards he set."