Posted on Thu, Feb. 02, 2006

Andale's youth not a hindrance

BY JEFFREY LUTZ
Wichita Eagle correspondent

Going into last season, Andale's wrestling roster was loaded with freshmen, so coach Rick Rivera wasn't sure what he had.

When the Indians finished fourth in Class 4A, it raised expectations for this season, which is just fine with Rivera.

"For this group of guys, their expectations are to win the state championship," Rivera said. "They all believe on any given day, they're capable of winning the whole thing. For us, it's not just a goal, it's one that's very attainable."

Andale had five wrestlers who finished no worse than fourth in 4A last season, and four are back.

Sophomores Brent Fisher and Peter Eck finished third and fourth, respectively, with a 61-11 combined record.

Junior Judd Schroeder finished second and sophomores Darrin Stroot, Sam Thoman and Chris Egbert all returned to play important roles this season.

The only returning senior with much varsity experience is Blake Fisher, who was the 2004 state champion at 103 pounds and finished third last season.

"They're a lot more mature, not only physically but mentally," Rivera said. "They've been in big tournaments, so now nothing fears them. At the same time, they can't hide from anybody. Everybody knows who they are."


Richard D. Salyer