Polson grapplers man up with young squad

POLSON - The word "young" comes up when talking about the Polson wrestling team, but that shouldn't be a problem.

"We had a very young team last year and I thought we made huge gains in competitiveness through the season," Polson head coach Bob Owen said. "It was great to win the divisional tournament again."

After prying the title from Ronan after a two-year divisional reign, the Pirates placed fifth in the state tournament last year. While three-time state champion Brock Picard won't be back, much to the relief of the rest of Montana, Owen has plenty of bullets to reload with.

Sophomore Craig Feistner placed third at state last year as a freshman in the 98-pound division. He's beefed up mightily and will look to see continued success at the 119 weight class.

"I think I'll do well," Feistner said. "I'm wrestling against a little heavier kids this season."

Last week during the Polson Invitational, senior Jacob Young had an inspired performance by placing first in the 140-pound division.

Young placed fifth at the state tournament last year at 135 pounds.

"I think Jake realizes this is his last shot at it," Owen said.

Another senior who turned heads was senior Jesse Alfiero, who placed third in the 130-pound division. Alfiero placed second in the divisional tournament last season.

"I think Jesse wrestled [last weekend] better than he ever had," Owen said.

Junior Josiah Clairmont placed fifth at state last year and already maked some noise at the Polson Invitational by second in the heavyweight division last weekend.

Other wrestlers who should make an impact are sophomores Lucas Polk and Raz Walhood, who both placed third in divisionals last year. Sophomore Mike Devlin placed second in divisionals last season and is wrestling at the 145-pound class this year.

There's also a stable of young wrestlers that Owen will count on for success this season.

"We have several freshmen coming into the program that have much experience in the Little Guy Wrestling program," Owen said. "Many of these guys will be in varsity positions, so they will have to grow up in a hurry."

With goals of another divisional championship and a trophy at state, they'll have to face up against a strong Northwestern A Conference.

"Ronan should be our main competition again this season," Owen said. "They return several seasoned wrestlers and one state champion in Toby Cheff. Columbia Falls had several youngsters in their line-up last season and will get a few very good freshmen this year. Libby also has a few very tough veterans and should be improved."