High school boys wrestling season is almost here. It is almost time for the mats to roll out and start the matches. Wrestling is an intensive sport and Penn is going for a state championship.
Penn High School’s wrestling team had a competitive season in 2023, marked by a strong performance at sectional and regional levels. They secured a Sectional Championship in a close competition with Mishawaka and had multiple wrestlers advancing through regionals, with standout performances from athletes like Bryce Denton.
However, the team also faced challenges, including injuries among key wrestlers. The program, known for its consistent success, saw strong individual efforts that underscored their resilience and high level of preparation for state level competitions.
Penn High School’s top wrestlers last season included Bryce Denton, a standout at 152 lbs who won his weight class at the regional level and competed in state level events. Other notable wrestlers were Wesley Harper and AJ Steenbeke, who also showed strength across different weight categories contributing to Penn’s success.
Coach Harper is the coach for the wrestling team. He has led the School’s wrestling program since 2006, marking 18 years of coaching as of this season. He has led Penn to multiple state qualifiers. He also coached and mentored Sarah Hildebrandt who notably got a gold medal in this year’s Paris Olympics.
Coach Harper said, “Bring the strongest positive mindset you can and watch the Xtreme magic happen.”
Liam Hunter, a varsity football player here at Penn, is a sophomore, and is also part of the wrestling team.
He says he feels good about the season and also says, “ It will be difficult also because of injuries I have faced in the past. But I am working hard and doing the best that I can.”
Penn High School’s wrestling team is set to kick off the season at the Black & Gold Intrasquad Scrimmage on Wednesday, November 27. This event is held at Penn High School.
