Coach Kevin Fowler knows what happened this past winter is not likely to repeat itself.The Warrenton wrestling program produced its first state champion out of a competitor who began his journey in …
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Coach Kevin Fowler knows what happened this past winter is not likely to repeat itself.The Warrenton wrestling program produced its first state champion out of a competitor who began his journey in the sport just three years prior.But success doesn’t typically happen that fast.“If we’re going to take the next step, we’re going to have to get kids involved before they are freshmen,” said Fowler. “It’s tough when you don’t have any type of feeder program.”That’s why he has been persistently petitioning for a school sanctioned program at the lower levels.Last Thursday, his wish was granted, as the R-III board approved the addition of a middle school wrestling team.“Honestly, I think we have a gold mine here,” said Fowler.“We really wanted to make sure that we were able to get started right away,” said Activities Director Bobby Spoonster.“It’s a big opportunity for kids that may not be doing things in the winter time.”Details are still being discussed about who will coach, where practices will be held and how extensive the schedule will be during the upcoming school year.“We may only have one meet a week, but that’s enough at this point to benefit them,” said Fowler.The schedule could require some travel, with not all schools having a middle school program. Among the possibilities are Hannibal, Fulton, Mexico, Owensville and Troy.He anticipates one of two coaching candidates, including a high school assistant, will head the program.“We have some qualified coaches that I would feel comfortable with them leading,” said Fowler.Fowler says it’s important to provide the non-basketball athletes an opportunity to stay active during the winter months.“Those other kids need something to do,” said Fowler. “We don’t want them playing football or running cross country and then being out sports for an entire season.”Spoonster says resources will be allotted for the program based on the response it receives.“We’ll see how successful the programs been and if we need to continue in the future,” said Spoonster. “Right now we’re just excited about the opportunity to get it rolling.”
