Wrestling squad boosts roster

Varsity team doubles in size, adds coach

Stratford+Varsity+Wrestling+Captain+Carson+Dorsey+practices+an+arm+bar+move+on+Hampton+Tiller

Gazebo Photo by Kieran MacKinnon

Stratford Varsity Wrestling Captain Carson Dorsey practices an arm bar move on Hampton Tiller

Although wrestling has been a longstanding sport at Stratford Academy, it has been out of the school spotlight since the conference switch to the GHSA.

This year, however, the varsity team has more than doubled in size. With the addition of a strong freshman class, there are now 12 varsity wrestlers and two middle school wrestlers.

“I think it’s good for the team, because we’re going to have a bigger team now instead of just a couple people, I think it’s great for our program,’’ junior captain Carson Dorsey said.

I think it’s good for the team, because we’re going to have a bigger team now instead of just a couple people.

— Carson Dorsey

Two years ago, when Carson was a freshman, the varsity team consisted of only himself and one other wrestler.

A larger roster also mean the possibility of home wrestling meets for the first time in four years, especially with the renovation of Gaddy Gym. Having an additional facility to host meets will prevent conflicts between the wrestling and basketball programs.

There has also been a new member of the coaching staff. In addition to coaches Lance Hutchins and Walt Mays, Josh Boyd joined on this year as a coach.

“I am looking forward to this season,’’ Coach Boyd said. “We have a lot of guys returning who put in a lot of work in the offseason. And I think their hard work will pay off this year.”