Setting the Standard

By SJ Munoz
York News-Times

The York College Wrestling Squad began, “setting the standard” the motto for the season, on Sept. 30 with their first official practice.

“We are focused on our vision for the future and that begins with daily improvement,” second year head coach Greg Smith said.

The Panthers have four returners, coupled with four transfers and 12 incoming freshman. With the large number of newcomers no duals are on the schedule this year so that the team can zero in on improving each day.

“This was a strategic move,” Smith said. “The guys can really focus on getting better each day.

I’m not afraid to put them against the best, that’s the only way they’re going to get better. But, it’s important that they focus on working hard each day to become the best wrestler they can be.”

This will create extra practice time and allow the team to reach its’ collective and individual potentials, according to Smith.

Returning this year are, Ryan Trotter at 125 pounds, Kelly Johansen at 184, who may drop down to 174, two-time national qualifier Bryan Irsik at 197 and Jason Lloyd who will wrestle heavyweight.  

“Leadership will be a big role the returners are going to fill,” Isrik said. “We need to bring the younger guys along and help them understand the goals and direction of this program.”

“To me it will be a successful season if everyone on this team gives it their all,” Lloyd added. “When the whistle blows and you know you have done nothing but your best, then that’s success.”

The team is looking to qualify the maximum number of wrestler to nationals, 12, but their objectives extend beyond the mat. For example, another goal is to end the season with a team grade point average of 3.2. 

“It’s important for everyone to understand what we are about,” Smith said. “We are more than wrestling. We want them to earn their degree and focus on developing them for life after college.”

Coach Smith has a bright outlook for the future and is very optimistic about his team.

“I’m very pleased with the guys we have representing us,” Smith said. “They are buying into the program and the philosophies. Keep an eye on use because we have a bright future ahead.”

The Panthers will host the Black & Blue Scrimmage on Nov. 8. This will be a chance for fans to come meet the team and several exhibition matches will take place.

“We want to use this as an opportunity to interact with the campus community,” Smith said. “Their support is important to us and we want to let them know they mean to us.”

Following the scrimmage, York College will be traveling every weekend this season with the exception of Feb. 21, when the Panthers will host the NAIA Central National Qualifier
“It’s the biggest meet of the year besides nationals, so obviously we are thrilled to be the host school,” Smith said.

York College begins the season Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Daniel Cormier Open in Colby, Kan.