The wrestling program is stronger than ever with 26 boys and four girls wrestling this season, the coaches set their goals on state.

“We have a full lineup for the first time,” head wrestling coach Marty Monigold said. “We have somebody at every single weight, which we haven’t done in at least five years, probably closer to 10. I’m expecting to have somewhere between two and six people qualify for state. If we get six, that will be the most Bishop McGuinness has ever had.”

Monigold has been working with wrestlers to prepare for the season with prep starting as early as the summer.

“We’ve been pushing these guys to get in better shape by practicing and showing new moves and standards,” Monigold said. “They’re getting more crisp with their moves and understand the strategies that go into wrestling.”

Wrestling is a mix of skill, strength and the mental ability to perform. Coaches have been honing in on these skills through practice so the wrestlers can perform at the best of their abilities.

“There’s the mental aspect because if you lose you can only blame yourself,” freshmen wrestler Grady Glazner said. “There’s no one else who can win.”

In addition, the girls wrestling team will be able to enter in competition this year with the increased interest in the sport. With that comes much success from team members across the board.

“The girls are placed in just about every competition they go to and for young freshmen that’s amazing,” girls wrestling coach Courtney Mullinix said.

The boys wrestling team will be competing in the Chickasha tournament Jan. 31.