Once again the Oxford Varsity Wrestlers are sending their best to state competition.
Senior Kyle Rowley and junior Kyle Oliver won their regional matches to qualify for this weekend’s event. The two will be going up against the other top 15 wrestlers in their weight classes.
“I’m just taking it match by match,” said Oliver. “My goal is to be the state champ.”
Rowley shared the sentiment, “These are the 16 best kids in the state – everybody’s tough. I’m not going to overlook anybody.”
When asked about whether or not they expected to qualify for state competition, both wrestlers were humble. Oliver said he just went step by step and did his best, while Rowley depended upon previous experience.
“Making it last year gave me the confidence I’d make it this year,” he said, “but I didn’t take anyone for granted. I didn’t look past anybody.”
Aside from their individual ability, the teammates credit their success and skill to Coach Paul McDevitt.
“Everything we know we learned from him,” said Rowley.
Rowley kicks off his state competition in the 189 weight class against Birmingham Groves senior Ryan Cahill. Oliver, weighing in at 215, opens against junior Ryan Case from Cedar Springs.
To prepare for their toughest competition yet, the two Wildcat grapplers have been holding shorter, yet more intense practices. Rowley said they’ve been reviewing the year, and doing a lot of drilling and a lot of matches.
“We’re basically going harder and harder,” he added. “Shorter practices, but more strenuous.”
State competition takes place at the Palace of Auburn Hills from March 11 through March 13. Round one begins at 2:45 p.m. on Thursday.