Panthers take fifth place at Devils Lake
Panthers took fifth place at the first wrestling tourney of the season at the Flynn Memorial at Devils Lake on Saturday, November 27.
“The kids learned a lot,” said Coach Craig Zachmeier. “It’s about improving and they have improved from early practices.”
Wyatt Thompson, Josh Tank, and Garrett Thompson were first place winners. Mike Steen and Mike Ostrem each received a fourth place finish.
The team is shaping up for a good season and the athletes are working hard to attain that goal. They have been practicing twice a day. They are learning the mental work involved in wrestling.
“Wrestling is a sport that takes dedication, determination and hard work,” said Zachmeier. To be successful in life you have to have these three things. Not everyone can step up to the challenge.”
The athletes are also getting their homework done, applying these same principals to their classroom work. Everyone on the team was eligible for Devils Lake, according to the coach.
Two of the wrestlers on the Rugby team are Steven Langham and Dustin Lawrence from Towner. This is the first year for both of them. Both Langham and Lawrence were in the varsity lineup at Devils Lake. Only one weight class on the Rugby team has not been filled. That is expected to be filled soon.
“Everyone is doing a great job,” said Zachmeier. “I don’t want to single out specific people at this point.”
The goal for this individual as well as team sport for Rugby this year is to have multiple state champions, according to Coach Zachmeier.
“These athletes, so far, have shown their determination, dedication, and hard work,” added Zachmeier. “They will be successful.”
The coach believes that respect is important as well. The Rugby Panthers show respect for the U.S. flag, coaches, referees, and fellow athletes.
“These athletes are learning how to be successful in life through the principals they are being taught in wrestling,” said the coach. “I am very proud of them.”