Central/Clayton Ridge Girls Wrestling Preview: Athletes aim to wrestle with confidence, discipline

By Kaitlyn Kuehl-Berns | Times-Register

For the fourth season of the program, 13 athletes will make up the Central girls wrestling team. Co-head coaches Abby Heitman and Levi Leur will lead athletes from both Central and Clayton Ridge high schools with the help of volunteer coaches Colten Ledbetter and Reese Berns.

Ahead of Thanksgiving break, the team kicked off their season with meets hosted by New Hampton/Turkey Valley, Bellevue and Midland.

Commenting on the team’s potential, Heitman shared, “We have a strong, motivated roster this season, with several returning [wrestlers] and a nice group of freshmen.”

The increase in numbers will allow for more competitiveness in practices and depth across weight classes.

Noting this season’s leaders, Heitman praised seniors Mayleigh Medberry and Maci Keppler.

“They both bring experience on the mat and great leadership in the practice room. They have high expectations of themselves and their teammates, which really sets the tone at practice,” she said.

Highlighting younger athletes who are expected to make an impact, Heitman said, “Our sophomores, Mylee Mueller and Kendal Wagner, are eager to learn and compete. Their work ethic and ability to absorb new techniques has impressed us.”

Looking ahead to the team’s goals for the season, Heitman stated, “We want our athletes to wrestle with confidence, stay disciplined, support each other and continue to improve. If the girls continue doing this, it will be a successful season.”

Central will host four home wrestling matches in Elkader on Dec. 5, Dec. 9, Dec. 16 and Jan. 9.