November 11th, 2022 - By Cameron Pease
As wrestling nears the beginning of its season, the Proctor-Hermantown United wrestling team, and its athletes prepare to compete. Over this past month, open mats have been available for any who would like to give the sport a try without having to make the full commitment.
The wrestling team will be holding practice this year at the old hockey arena, as they have in previous years. This is also where open mats have, and will be held in the future.
Captains for the team this year will be Junior Zak McPhee, and Senior Quinn Schabel. Coaches will be head coach Eric McPhee, coach Dave MacNamee, and coach Cody Weiland.
The first day of practice this year will begin on the 21st of November.
Junior wrestler, 3rd season on the team, Landin Laakso, said, “I’m really looking forward to a good season, and potentially a chance at state this year. I’m also hoping for a successful season for everyone else on the team.” Landin also said that he was looking forward to the Section meet the most this year.
Zak McPhee, Junior, and one of the captains of the team this year was asked what he was most excited about for the upcoming wrestling season. He said, “I am most looking forward to the wrestling season in general, getting to know teammates better, and tournaments, especially sections.”
Competition wise, Zak went on to say that there will be tough competition in all of the weight classes he wrestles at this year. He also said he was looking forward to Sections the most as that decides whether you will go to state or not.
When asked how people can join or become involved in wrestling Zak said, “People can 100% join, and I hope they will. We have been a small team since our beginning, but we’ve been building a solid program. People can get a hold of myself, anyone else on the team, or talk to Mr. Mac. After that they will direct you to coaches. I know for a fact that it’s going to be a positive influence on you. It may be tough, but you are going to grow as a person and as an athlete. Plus it’s a lot of fun!”
Currently the best way to get involved with, or join Proctor Hermantown wrestling is to
1. Talk to a wrestler or a wrestling coach.
2. Go to the PHS website.
3. Go to open mats which will be held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 until the 21st of November.
At open mats those who are interested will be able to learn a little about wrestling before having to make the commitment of joining the team for the entire season. Wrestling is a difficult sport, but one that many can enjoy. If you are interested in trying wrestling, these are the best ways to join, or become involved with the team