The Columbus East wrestling team kicks off their season at home against Seymour after coming off of a successful 2015-16 season. East won Sectionals as a team and placed second overall in Regionals. Although the team’s season ended at Regionals, nine wrestlers moved on individually to Semi-State. At Semi-State three wrestlers advanced to State, including current Juniors Dawson Combest and Graham Rooks, as well as East graduate Sean Galligar.

Combest placed eighth at state in his weight class, and Rooks finished fourth in his weight class. Both wrestlers are looking to make it back to state this season and have better success.

After having a great season last year, the team looks to have similar success with a young, but experienced team in terms of wrestling. Junior Dawson Combest is confident about this season and hopes to continue to improve.

Q: What are your individual goals for the season?
A: My goals for this season are to win conference, Sectionals, and Regionals as a team and individual. I also want to win the Al Smith Classic. My ultimate personal goal is to be a State Champion.

Q: How do you prepare throughout the week for a match?
A: I prepare for a match by pushing myself through practices. I try to get 1% better every day. I run in the mornings before school to make sure I’m in tip top shape.

Q: How do you think your experience on this team will help you this season?
A: My previous experiences will help me by staying calm; I have been in almost every situation possible.

The meet starts at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday in the Orange Pit.