Miami Wrestling
As the Wardogs prepare for the upcoming season, head coach Blake Byrne is excited to see how his wrestlers are developing and preparing for another grueling year on the mat. The expectations are growing, and the team is embracing the challenge.
“This team is ready to take the next step towards being a great team. We lost a few tough seniors from a year ago, but we have some depth that will fill in the holes. Our motto this year is “we are done talking about it, it’s time to be about it,” said Byrne.
Leading the way is Hayden Miller, a Class 4A state runner-up at heavyweight, Miller appears ready to take that big step to becoming a champion. Coach Byrne said Miller is a guy who used wrestling to get better at football, then found out he’s a great wrestler. Miller is an inspiration to his teammates and carries the Wardog flag into battle.
Dropping down a few weight classes, you will find a sophomore in Levi Sumagpang, a wrestler who was one match away from qualifying for state last year as a freshman. This kid is hungry and is looking to make the big show this year. Don’t be surprised if Sumagpang is turning heads and making people take notice.
Senior Dillon Blundell just missed out on the state tournament last season, but had previously qualified as a sophomore, so his experience level is high, and he has developed into one of the leaders in the wrestling room for Miami. This is a guy who shows up ready to work and is willing to do whatever it takes to help his team.
David Snider is another wrestler to watch coming out of Miami this season. Snider brings a positive attitude to the mat. He’s also someone who will give you a tough match night in and night out. Snider qualified for state as a junior last season at 215-pounds. After going 1-2 in the state tournament, Snider is focused on making the podium this season.
The Wardogs will need some younger guys to step up and help during duals, but overall the team is poised for one of their best seasons in recent memory.
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