GROVE RIDGERUNNER WRESTLING
BOYS
Coach: JOHN WARD II
On paper, the 2025-26 wrestling season is shaping up to be a fun one for the Ridgerunners. Head coach John Ward II said the team returns a solid nucleus of wrestlers who can not only win matches and tournaments, but help the other wrestlers raise their talents to another level.
“We have some really solid returning starters, three state qualifiers and a returning state finalist. We don’t have as much depth as the last few years but will still be a competitive team. We will need several 9th-10th graders to step up and fill some spots. We have great kids that work hard and will get better as the year progresses,” coach Ward said.
Gavin Wyatt is a two-time placer and was a finalist last year. Wyatt is hungry to grab that top podium spot this season as a senior.
“Great kid who has gotten better every year. We will need him to be a leader this year and show the underclassmen the right way to do things,” coach Ward said.
Someone looking to follow in Wyatt’s footsteps is Ethan Pick. Coach Ward said Pick works hard and finds ways to win.
“Talented and hard-working young man who does everything required and more to be great. Very gritty who finds a way to win. Excited to see him in the lineup this season.”
Also look for Will Dunaway to be a big contributor this season. Coach Ward said Dunaway, “has worked hard and continues to be a huge contributor to our program.” Dunaway is talented and has continued to improve as a wrestler and as a leader.
