The Penn Kingsmen are set to kick off their wrestling season with high anticipation for a great 2024-2025 season. Under the guidance of Head Coach Brad Harper, the Kingsmen are preparing for what everyone hopes will be one of their most successful seasons in recent years.
Looking Back
The Kingsmen finished last season with a phenomenal record of 11-0, a conference record of 5-0, and sectional and regional championships. Showing both skill and hard work in all of their matches, the Kingsmen are still hungry and are looking to excel this year. With several key wrestlers making a return and a new group of incoming freshmen, the expectations for this wrestling season are high.
“We want to set a foundation of good character and respect, when we step on the mat we will dominate and when we step off the mat we will dominate as a respectful student-athlete.” Harper said.
Returning Wrestlers and Some New Faces
The Kingsmen boast a strong roster of returning wrestlers, including standout wrestlers like Brady Harper (113), Angelo Vargo (132), Vinny Freeman (190), and Malachi Evans (215). All of these wrestlers have been constant performers and show great mat skills as well as excellent leadership qualities.
Alongside some of the veterans, the team also welcomes the Class of 2028 freshmen wrestlers who have already made a huge impact on the preseason practices. Coach Harper said it’s just as important for the new guys to get in and get mat time as the veterans because Penn Wrestling is one big family and everybody helps everyone improve.
Pre-season Preparation
The Kingsmen preseason practices have been intense and focused. Practices have included multiple fundamental drills as well as difficult and intense conditioning to end off practice. “You got to have your strength training first, get that nutrition checked, and then you have to have your wrestling foundation,” Harper said. “You can’t just be physically prepared either you have to have mental preparation.” One of Penn’s varsity wrestlers Angelo Vargo also stated, “During preseason, I would have problems with my weight sometimes and I would work hard on getting my weight down, also making sure that I eat healthy foods and get myself on a diet to get my body right for the season.”
Looking Forward
As the Kingsmen look forward to stepping on the mat for another great season full of domination, excitement and optimism are visible. With all of the veteran wrestlers making their return and as Coach Harper says the new freshman class “reloading the roster” they set the stage for what could be a very memorable season for the Kingsmen. With their eyes set on a State title, the Kingsmen are ready to showcase their talent and determination toward their sport. Fans are to expect an exciting season full of intense matches and great performances.
Stay tuned as the Penn Kingsmen take off on their journey with the first wrestling meet scheduled against Carmel High School on Saturday, Nov. 23, aiming to turn their preseason push into a standout season.
