It is that time of the year again, winter sports. Preparations have been underway for athletes competing this winter, and expectations from these athletes are high. From losing seniors and chemistry, each year high school sports need to re-adjust to become successful in their upcoming season. 

   Both boys’ and girls’ basketball have been doing workouts and preparation for their season. After both teams had a successful record for the 2021-22 season, they look to get more wins and further themselves at the conference and regional tournaments. 

   Senior guard, Stacia Hedrich, has been participating in basketball all of her life. She is looking forward to her last season as a Mountie basketball player. 

   “My expectation for the season is that the team will go far and play united as a team,” said Hedrich.

   Junior Lincoln Keathley has been part of the Boys’ Basketball Program since his freshman year. Since this year will be his first year playing on the Varsity team, he expects the team to accomplish tons due to the senior leadership.

   “I believe we will be pretty solid, and the open gyms or four player workouts have allowed for the team to get better,” said Keathley.

   The basketball teams are not the only sports in session during the winter, wrestling also takes place in roughly the same months. 

   After sending multiple wrestlers to states this past season, expectations by the senior leaders, including Gage Race, are high. He explains the team holds themselves to the title of state attendees by pushing themselves mentally and physically so they can get there.

   “The goal obviously is to be state champs, but I am really looking forward to this season because it will be the best one yet,” said Race. 

   Another winter sport that has the reputation of being in the conversation for state champions is bowling. After having a very successful season last year, and losing a few crucial graduates, the team is still confident in keeping the legacy of going to states. Senior Ryan Wenman has been a part of the team all of high school and is an avid bowler in his free time. 

   “I bowled in two leagues over this offseason and this has prepared me for the upcoming season,” said Wenman. “I believe this will allow me to be very successful in the upcoming season.”

   He explains his personal goal is to be top four in regional and state rankings, while the team’s goal is to secure a conference championship once again and place high in states. 

   Every athlete competing in the winter has positive expectations for their team. Off-season workouts and individual lifts prepare these teams for deep runs into their season.