By Russell Pate
ITW Staff Writer

Here is a late and overdue edition of the Houston Report to wrap up 2006-07. Let me take a look at each state champ from the area.

Study in Heroism – Jamie Sheets
When I use the word hero here, I mean it in the superhero sense, because that’s what he did at State. When he stepped on the mat for the 145 lb. State Finals, Cinco’s Team Title chances looked about like Gotham City’s do before Batman arrives. He changed all of that with :48 seconds that will not be forgotten for a long time. His bookend state titles make an argument for him as the best Houston wrestler not named James Aston. There have been other 2X champs, but none who beat wrestlers the caliber Jamie did for his titles. This title win over undefeated Mike Murray was awesome, but don’t forget that his first championship was won in a weight class that had Shane Doughman and Sean Kitchen in the 3rd place match.

The Final Word – His leadership of Houston’s first state team title will be remembered even more than his pair of individual golds.

Study in Clutch – Matt Harris
If Sheets saved the day like Batman, then call Matt Harris Superman. He spent big parts of the last two regular seasons doing a good Clark Kent impression before taking off the glasses and becoming The Man of Steel each February. I have never seen a wrestler with the ability to raise his level and wrestle so far above himself when it matters most. He is the definition of the word “Winner” on the mat and on the football field. Whatever he decides for college, I will make one bet, he’ll be at his best when the lights get brightest.

The Final Word – The Rockets made Houston Clutch City back in the 90s, but Matt Harris has revived the nickname.

Study in Excellence – Steve Nijoka
Call Nijoka the Renaissance Man because it appears he does everything well. Not only did he just cap a 55-1 season with a state title, he did it in style. His low single in the 215 lb. weight class was perhaps the single best offensive move in the state of Texas this year. People often assume that upper weight wrestlers have no skill, but the truth is that the pushing matches we see are often the result of how hard it is to “Do” anything to a large athletic man (of which Texas has plenty). Nijoka, who started as a middle weight, was undoubtedly the most skilled wrestler in his weight class, but most skilled wrestlers cannot dream of finishing on guys that size. Nijoka offered the whole package though. His strength (he appears to be no stranger to the squat rack) and athletic ability were as big of factors to his low single as the countless hours he must have spent drilling it. I am also guessing that if we had a true “All-Weight” champion last week, it would have been him, not one of the heavyweights.

The Final Word – Nijoka was near the top of Houston’s 4 year run of 215 lb. state champs (Sanders, Aston, Jones, Nijoka).

Study in Ferocity – Austin McCain
McCain is a shark. There is no other way to put it. He sniffs out weakness like blood in the water and then he goes for the kill. No matter where he is he sees himself as the toughest guy in the Gym. You could put OU 125 lb. standout Sam Hazewinkle on the opposite side and Austin would go out to win. It’s not that he lies to himself, he’s just a killer on a very short leash. His destruction of a very tough Chris Nguyen at Regionals should have let us know what was to come at state. His semi-final with Josh Sandoval saw a pair of sharks, two guys who aren’t happy with scoring two, they are constantly looking five. And McCain out-sharked the shark that day.

The Final Word – Hopefully McCain plans on competing at the next level, because I’d love to see him bring that “alpha male” competitiveness to a college room.

Study in Tenacity – Eric Spjut
Eric is a tough kid who seems to never stop doing the right things. I have never seen a young wrestler have a more consistent first two years. He has been rock solid for over 50 wins each of his first 2 seasons, always working to improve. His on the mat style appears to be an extension of great character off the mat; bruising, intense, swarming, constant, and never satisfied.

The Final Word – expect Eric to not only repeat as a state champ, but expect him to be much improved for his junior campaign.

Each new part will be added daily 11/13 – 11/17

Part I: Monday, November 13
A look at 10 burning questions that loom large in Houston heading into the season, followed by the return of the Houston area Rankings from HoustonEye.

10. How will re-alignment affect things on a district and Regional Level?

On a District level it will affect all the teams in the Klein/Conroe District and District 24 (Brazoswood, Friendswood, Westbrook). Things will get much tougher on all the Conroe schools to qualify kids for Regionals, this will be most important for the Woodlands. They will not only face a tougher district tournament, they will now be locked into a district dual schedule during the 2nd half of the year. For the Klein schools their district lost a tough team in Bryan, added an even tougher one in the Woodlands, but also added a few schools worth of depth from the rest of Conroe. The big winners though are Brazoswood, Friendswood, and Westbrook. They see the Woodlands and Conroe move out, to be replaced by 3 brand new teams from Clear Lake. This basically lets them split up the 14 regional qualifiers the Woodlands had every year.

On a Regional Level the team race was significantly changed. The Klein schools and the Woodlands will now be much more limited in the number of guys they bring. Even with great teams, they will have a hard time winning (see Katy schools). With the way the districts are drawn, I doubt any Houston team can win a Regional Title now. All of the top teams are crammed into two districts while two districts remain weak. I would not be surprised if Cy Fair and Westside finish ahead of Cinco and The Woodlands at Regionals. And I would also guess a few Houston Teams finish Higher at State than at Regionals. (Not to mention the addition of Highland Park to that race).

9. Who will be the area’s dual representatives as Katy hosts State Duals?

Katy ISD welcomes the State Dual tournament to Houston this year and it is a great year for Houston to have it. This should be the most competitive group in some time. Klein, Cinco Ranch, Taylor, Woodlands, and Cy-Fair are my picks. The first 4 boast very deep and balanced teams, while Cy Fair will look to cover a few holes with individual excellence in the middle. I include 5 because of the likelihood that as host, Houston gets a 5th berth. All are capable of high finishes with Cinco looking to bring home the title.

8. Which wrestlers who did not qualify for state last year have the best chance to place or even compete for a state title this year?

Matt Hinton was on his way to a great season last year as The Woodlands Heavyweight before a knee injury stopped him short. Now he starts this season as a bit of an unknown. Will he be the physically dominating wrestler of a year ago, or will the injury have cost him too much in experience and mat time. However, having a great natural athlete under a great Greco and Big Man coach like Bautista spells trouble for opposing wrestlers this year. Additionally, he is a part of a tough Woodlands football team that looks playoff bound right now, so while this question may go unanswered until December or January, expect Matt to have a great February.

Austin Davis of Klein Oak had a freshman season that reminded many observers of past Klein Oak great Shane Doughman’s freshman year. Both spent the season as undersized 103s who lacked the physical abilities to make their superior technique pay off against top competition, but both battled gamely. In fact, the two even look alike. Davis is the kind of wrestler who could make a huge leap from a skilled, undersized freshman to a physical sophomore. He showed flashes of greatness last year with a win over state qualifier Matt Morgan of Katy. If he has grown enough to be a full sized 112 then he will be in the hunt for a state medal just like those who went before him.

7. Which wrestlers will most benefit from work put in this off-season?

Most people assume that off-season means Fargo for some reason. However, there is great folkstyle wrestling throughout the spring that often gets ignored. Chris Nguyen of Klein is a guy who wasn’t at the big summer freestyle meets but still put in some great work, namely a 1st place finish at the Cliff Keen Reno Worlds. Chris was a state place winner last year at 112 after qualifying the year before at 103. He has made steady progress for years now, and his work this past spring and summer might put him over the top. He is at a tough weight class (119) but could end up a State Finalist.

6. What young area team is ready to go from startup to competitor?

For years Brazoswood has been one of the few second tier teams that always put a full lineup on the mat. They were a team that put tough physical kids at every weight. But this season that might change. Slow and steady progress for the PROGRAM (not just a one year team), has seen the development of both a strong kids club and great community acceptance and support stemming from a program built by football coaches. Now this solid foundation has been handed over to a true Wrestling coach, Bill Baker, formerly of Friendswood. Bill knows how to handle the location and travel difficulties already, and he should help add some sound technique to the toughness and depth they already boast. They will be led by Jamaal Bufford at 180. He was a cadet Freestyle champ this summer beating Capadogli of The Colony in the Finals. Don’t be surprised if Brazoswood turns into a Bryan type of program in the next few years.

5. What area team has the best chance to make the jump from solid to elite?

Cy Fair had a breakthrough season last year. This is not unique as many upcoming teams put together a tough squad of seniors and compete for a year and then go away. However, it rare that an unknown team does this while being young. Azle was an example two years ago, as they broke through as a competitive team, only to return last season on a whole different level. Cy Fair could be the same with a team that broke through last year, and then graduated just one wrestler. Their lineup from 119-160 will be as tough as any in the state, and if they can answer some questions down low and up top (where they showed big improvement last year), they will be a team to watch.

4. Will any returning state placer stand atop the podium this year? (Sheets, Murray, Spjut, Nguyen, McNair)
The short answer is Yes, but let me expand. Eric Spjut had a great freshman year with just 1 loss, an overtime thriller to fellow frosh Jeremy Sandoval in the State Quarter-Finals. Now when 2 freshman dominate a weight like that it would be easy to assume that it was a weak weight class. But to understand how tough this weight was, consider that recent Fargo All-American and previous state finalist Brandon McDonald finished just 5th place. Spjut comes back this year looking like a definitive favorite to win his first state crown. I just hope that he gets a rematch at some point with Sandoval (now at 125), not because he needs to prove anything but because if it was anything like the first one it would be great wrestling (Oklahoma Open perhaps???).

But even without Spjut I think the answer would still be yes and the two reasons for this are Mike Murray and Jamie Sheets, both at 145 pounds. When last season ended I believe Murray had the edge in this potential matchup, but it seems Sheets has done some growing both physically and mentally in the off-season. Coming in on weight on October 1 was huge for a guy who chose not to cut as much weight in the past as some other top performers. It may have cost Sheets in some matches the last 2 years where his opponents were bigger and stronger, but the thing about not cutting a ton of weight is you continue to learn and improve in practice, rather than surviving and worrying primarily about weight. Along with constant work all summer and fall I think this has to make the difference come February. Murray however is a state champion level wrestler in his own right as wins over Bash and Luttrell proved last year. He is extremely physical and should be very big and strong in this weight class. Hopefully this match happens when Murray returns from his work as a starting Wide Receiver for the state ranked Cy Fair Bobcat football team, but even if it does not, they will see each other at regionals. And the good thing about it is that being in the same region all but assures they will be on opposite sides of the bracket come State.

3. Will Matt Harris repeat as state champion?

Yes. And I won’t spend a lot of time on it as you can read my last article for my thoughts (http://www.insidetexaswrestling.com/news/?p=107#more-107 ). I’ll just say that even if Matt is not the best 171 in the state right now he will be come February. His improvement over the past few years has been constant and never ending. As great as he was last year I would expect him to be that much better by the end of the season. His desire to excel is very impressive and rubs off on those around him, as seen by his football success for a playoff team and his wrestling prowess for a top title contender. There is no limit to how high he can go in the future if he continues to stay humble and work hard.

2. Which area district will be the best?

This is perhaps the toughest question on the list. Both Katy and Klein/Woodlands will be among the state’s 5 toughest districts this year. Both feature top teams and depth to match. In Klein, Klein Oak, and The Woodlands, you have a very tough triad of High School Wrestling. All 3 graduated key wrestlers, but will be back amongst the Region’s best this year (they’ve all had top 3 regional finishes in the past two years). Behind them is Klein Collins who produced a state champion in last year’s Kyle Jones. Behind the top 4 there is strength in numbers with Klein Forest and Oakridge, teams that are rarely full but often produce a high quality wrestler or state placer. Woodlands College Park is well coached and appears to be borrowing on a school wide basis from the Woodlands athletics model, and should be very competitive soon. With the Woodlands moved in this year, this will be a meatgrinder of a district for years to come.

In the Katy district Cinco is a clear favorite, but Taylor should be one of the top area teams as well. Katy could be almost anywhere in the top 10 depending on their upperweights, while Mayde Creek is probably the toughest 4th ranked team of any district. Additionally, Morton Ranch has improved considerably in their first 2 years and their first senior class ever should give them their best team. Seven Lakes and Strake Jesuit are not competitive on the highest level yet, but they both have almost full lineups and actual wrestlers at every weight. Seven Lakes in particular was a young program who looked promising last year. Waller rounds out the district. Considering both depth and strength at the top I would have to make my top 5 toughest districts on a year-to-year basis as follows

1. Arlington
2. Katy
3. Klein/Woodlands
4. Highland Park/Lake Highlands/Dallas Jesuit
5. San Antonio

1. Who will be the area’s top team?

Cinco Ranch, and again I won’t give you too much detail since I covered it in my last article (http://www.insidetexaswrestling.com/news/?p=107#more-107 ). But I will say I expect two state champions and a team dual title. However, don’t expect them to look the part early as many are a part of the playoff football run. Here is a look at the lineup.

103 should be handled by JV kid or Kids program frosh
112 Nick Waltman, 12 (state qualifier, 39-7)
119 Nick Trocchio
125 Will Tarallo, 11 (20-18)/ Brett Morris, 10
130 Nick Tanory, 11 (22- 18, Regional Qualifier)
135 ???
140 Brad Bartholomew, 11 (25- 19) /
145 Jamie Sheets, 12 (39- 4, 4th at state)
152 ???
160 Will Morris, 11 (10- 5, La. State Placer in 05’)
171 Matt Harris, 12, (45- 1, 1st at state)
180 Will McNair, 12 (38- 4 2nd at State)
189 ???
215 Matt Stewart, 11 (27- 12)
275 John Gioffre, 11 (23- 14)

And we close out with the Houston Area Individual Rankings as submitted by HoustonEye. Stay tuned the rest of the week for district by district previews and team rankings.

Houston Area Individual Rankings
103
1. Tyler Lukes, 9, Cy Ridge
2. Josh Brown, 9, Klein

112
1. Nick Waltman, 11, Cinco Ranch
2. Austin Davis, 11, Klein Oak
3. Luis Oporta, Lee
4. Necker, Waller
5. Espinoza, Conroe

119
1. Eric Spjut, 10, Woodlands
2. Matt Morgan, 11, Katy
3. Figueroa, Klein
4. Jacob Beasley, 12, Cy Fair
5. Kelley Ritchie, 12, Mayde Creek

125
1. Chris Nguyen, 12, Klein,
2. Austin McCain, 12, Cy Fair,
3. Neil Nicholson, 11, Westside
4. Kyle Brown, 11, Taylor
5. Derek Shaw, 11, Langham Creek

130
1. Austin Metcalf, 12, Cy Fair,
2. Nick Tannory, 11, Cinco Ranch
3. Brooks Langford, 12, Woodlands
4. Lutner, 12, Taylor

135
1. Michael Hasson, 12, Cy Fair
2. Vasil Boasherliev, 11, Woodlands
3. Almaraz, 12, Morton Ranch
4. Pita, 11, Taylor

140
1. Drew Pikulski, 12, Cy Fair
2. Brad Bartholomew, 12, Cinco Ranch
3. Matt Rascon, 11, Woodlands
4. Chris Hart, 9, Taylor

145
1. Jamie Sheets, 12, Cinco Ranch
2. Michael Murray, 12, Cy Fair
3. Dustin Curry, 11, Taylor
4. Schults, Klein
5. Kovacs, Woodlands

152
1. Kevin Holden, 12, Katy,

160
1. Rollie Williams, 12, Katy,
2. Hazzard, 11, Westside,
3. Brent Morris, 11, Cinco Ranch
4. Jay Fortner, 10, Klein Oak,
5. Patrick Gaume, 12, Woodlands,

171
1. Matt Harris, 12, Cinco Ranch
2. Jack Guillory, 12, Friendswood
3. Cameron Taylor, 12, Mayde Creek
4. Bryce Jennings, 12, Katy

180
1. Will McNair, 12, Cinco Ranch
2. Phil Thomas, 12, Klein
3. Cody Keonig, 12, Taylor
4. Jamall Buford, 11, Brazoswood
5. Josh South, 12, Westside

189
1. Gerald Moulton, 12, Westbrook
2. Zach Shabaan, 12, Westside
3. Poindexter, 12, Brazoswood

215
1. Steve Nijoka, 12, Strake Jesuit
2. Miller, 11, Klein
3. Ortega, 11, Taylor
4. Matt Stewart, 11, Cinco Ranch
5. Josh Dean, 12, Cy Ridge
6. Pisarski, 12, Brazoswood

275
1. Zac Benson, 12, Mayde Creek
2. Tom Elijah, 12, Klein Oak
3. Matt Hinton, 12, The Woodlands
4. Wayne Blackwell, 12, Taylor
5. Gioffe, 11, Cinco Ranch
6. JT Woodard, 11, Westside
7. Cantelmo, 12, Cy Fair

TUESDAY’S PART II

Part II:Klein/Woodlands District
This district was already tough but the addition of The Woodlands and the other Conroe Schools makes it one of the 5 toughest in the state. Look for a battle between Klein and The Woodlands for the district title. These two teams may have more depth and JV talent than anyone in the city. If forced to pick I may go with Klein on a district or dual level but the Woodlands on a Regional and State level. Klein Oak is a clear cut above the rest of the district for 3rd, but the other Klein and Conroe schools give this district numbers that will make the district tournament a battle.

Klein Oak… they graduated one of the best Senior classes in recent memory but the stable is far from empty. Austin Davis at 112 should be the one of the best in the Houston area. He is joined by Fortner (Sophomore, 160 ???), who looks to follow in the footsteps of older brother Tom, a state finalist… Klein… Also graduated a lot, but has one of the deepest and toughest JV teams in the state. Don’t expect them to drop off at all. Philip Thomas (180) and Chris Nguyen (125) are their top returning wrestlers. Thomas was a state qualifier and Regional finalist last year at 171. Expect him to contend for a state medal this year. He has a great stance, that combined with his athleticism and intelligence, makes him very tough to score on. He seems to never be out of position. Think Spencer Covey without the mat wrestling. Nguyen is a returning state placer who is looking to improve on that finish. He spent the spring and summer wrestling including a trip to Reno in search of competition. Miller at 215 is a full sized 215 and could give problems to some of the areas smallish 215s… Klein Forest… Klein Collins… They will be looking to rebuild after the graduation of 215 state champ Kyle Jones and 275 state Qualifier David Brown. Expect them to continue to be tough in the upper weights under Coach Rucker’s watch… The Woodlands… They will be very tough from 119 to 160. The switch in districts affects them more than anyone. In the past they were automatic regional contenders based mostly on the team’s strength but also on the high number of wrestlers they got to take to regionals. Competition in the Klein District will be tougher, but they are equipped to handle it. Eric Spjut (119) came up just short of a state title as a freshman and will look to correct that this year. Heavyweight Hinton was on his way to a likely state appearance last year before a December knee injury sidetracked him. If he comes back with the same form he should be a contender again. Also look out for Vassil Boasherliev at 140??? He had a great summer season and should step into the lineup and make immediate noise.… College Park… They fielded a competitive team last year in their first year, and Coach Gonzalez appears to have them on the right track. A 4th place district finish behind the big 3 would not be surprising… Conroe… Oak Ridge…

Wednesday’s PART III

Part III:
Katy District
An always tough district that should be at its best this year. Cinco and Taylor should be 1 and 2 again after graduating 1 and 2 starters respectively from last year’s strong teams. Both should be at the State Dual tournament.
Cinco Ranch… Lineup is very deep in addition to the studs everyone knows. Look out for Tannory (130) and Gioffe (285)… Katy… Returning State Qualifier Matt Morgan makes a tough move from 103 to 119. Glenn (125) pairs with him to give Katy some Tough lightweights. They will also be tough in the upper middle weights with Returning state Qualifier Rollie Williams and Kevin Holden (152, 160)… Mayde Creek… Benson (285) was a state Alternate and should be their best guy. Taylor (171) is also very tough… Taylor… Could be a very tough dual lineup. They will be led by their only seniors Keonig (180) and Blackwell (285). Both are potential State Qualifers. Strake Jesuit… Nijoka (215) is the heart of the team. He could compete for a regional and state crown under the right circumstances… Morton Ranch… This is a team that could break through. They have their first senior class and should continue to progress. Almaraz (135) and Lowery(152) are their top dogs. Seven Lakes… Another young program who has done everything right. Hauser (160) is just a Junior but is the kind of Wrestler they need to lead the young team…

THURSDAY: PART IV
Part IV:
District 24
The only certainty in this district is there will be a new champion for the first time. The Woodlands and their stranglehold on the district has moved on. Expect Westbrook and Brazoswood to finish 1-2. The most interesting dual may be when Brazoswood and new head coach Bill Baker take on Baker’s old Friendswood squad.
Friendswood… Jack Guillory (171) is a returning state qualifier. Fleichman at 119 is also tough… Brazoswood… They are led by Jamaal Bufford at 180. He was a cadet Freestyle champ this summer beating Capadogli of The Colony in the Finals… Poindexter (189) also needs to be watched… Westbrook… Moulton (189) has improved steadily over the past few years. As a sophomore he was a regional placer and then a state qualifier as a Junior last year. Can this be the year he breaks through…Clear Brook… Clearlake… Clear Creek…

Cy Fair District
This will be in a one team race for the district title. This is not a knock on other improving district teams, but rather a nod that Cy Fair appears to be moving to another level. They could be the first team from this district to accomplish anything at the Regional or State level.
Cy Fair… They return almost everything from last year’s team, and should be as tough as anyone in the state from 119 to 145. How far they go will be decided by the performance of their upper weights though. An unknown to watch is Austin Metcalf at 130… Cy Ridge… They look like a clear number 2 in the district and have grown into a team that puts a legitimate lineup on the mat every year. Their strength is in their team lineup rather than any individual, but freshman 103 Lukes has had some forum hype and is more than capable of living up to it. Dean at 215 is working on a great Football season and looks to follow up on the mat… Langham Creek… They were up and down last year but made big strides overall. Watch out for Derrick Shaw (125)… Cy Springs… Josh Lewis 189 is a contender for a district title… Cy Falls… Mike Brown at 152 should contend for a regional berth… Cy Woods…

FRIDAY: PART V

Part V:
HISD District
Westside… They graduated a lot but are still the class of this district and a perennial top team in the Houston area. Junior James Hazard at 152 is a returning state qualifier, and might have been a placer if not for an injury suffered in the 2nd round. He looks capable of becoming Westside’s next state medalist over the next two years. Neil Nichols (125) is another kid with a chance to make some noise this season. Lamar… Lee

Private Schools
St. Thomas… They are the top private school in the city but they will be very down from last year. They won’t have the top individuals they had a year ago but will still fill out a very tough dual lineup. Look out for Noser and Farhood (125, 130)… Kinkaid… Private School wrestling has a long history in Houston but it almost gone now. Kinkaid under Steve Leisz and St. Thomas under Bill Dushane (now at Cinco) were producing all-state wrestlers all the way back to the days of the pre-UIL combined state tournament. They were the “godfathers” of the sport in this city and led the way in the early days when public schools were just getting started. Even as little as 2 years ago Strake Jesuit was a top team. Now Kinkaid is down to a handful of wrestlers and simply can’t compete with big public schools, and their plight is replayed at all the area private schools. I hope I am wrong but last year might have been the end of area Private schools competing at the highest state levels.

By Russell Pate
ITW Staff Writer

When last year arrived it appeared that Houston would be in a rebuilding year. The class of 2005, led by James Aston, had come and gone. It looked questionable whether 2006 would keep up the trend of South Texas gaining ground on the rest of the state. Looking back on the season, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

Last season saw depth on a scale that Bayou-area wrestling never had known before. To make the top-ten area teams became a meaningful accomplishment rather than a guarantee for anyone simply with a full lineup of fifteen wrestlers.

Here are a few highlights of last season.

• The first regional dual tournament was a great success. Klein, Klein Oak, and Cy Fair all earned the right to advance to the state dual tournament. (Cy Fair’s 4th place at Regions was very impressive from a team in its first year with a real high school coach.)

• The best story, however, was Cinco Ranch. The weekend was a turning point for a Cinco team that had struggled through a rebuilding mode all year. They finally brought it all together and had an undefeated run that catapulted them to a district title and top-five state finish – all in a team full of juniors.

• The Regional III Tournament was a Klein showcase! Klein and Klein Oak finished 2nd and 3rd, respectively both within points of victory. This great effort was followed up by strong state tournaments for both programs.

• Three Houston wrestlers brought home gold in Austin. Shane Doughman repeated, Matt Harris battled through adversity to win his first crown, and Kyle Jones continued a three-year run of Houston 215 lb. state champions (Sanders, Aston, Jones).

Looking Ahead – Powerhouse Dual Threats

2006-2007 looks right now like it will be a big year for area teams and Wrestlers, and this all starts with Cinco Ranch (http://cincowrestling.org/).

The Cougars placed 5th in the state last year and return not only every one of those points, but also 14 of their top 15 wrestlers overall. Only one wrestler graduated from last year’s team, and though they have the big guns to compete for a UIL State Title, there team strength may lie more in a dual lineup with more experience than anyone in the state. ITW has CR ranked second (to Highland Park) in the preseason UIL rankings.

Last year’s Junior heavy team was very inexperienced due to the awesome 05’ senior class they replaced. But by the end of the year, the newbies were making noise. Lots of noise.

Matt Harris began the season as one of those wrestlers without much varsity experience. He spent 2005 searching for a spot in the lineup behind a run of Cinco All-State wrestlers. When he finally got down to his spot at 140, he ran into a pair of state place winners at the district tournament and was unable to qualify for Regionals.

Last year began with Matt as a great potential talent, but he wasn’t seen on any state champion watch lists. However, Cinco Ranch wrestlers win. That’s what they do. That’s what they expect to do. That’s what they’ve always done.

So when you are one of the best in the Cinco Ranch room, you don’t lack confidence regardless of what you have or have not done. Add to that the fact that Harris is a competitor (just ask those who line up against him on the football field), and you have a kid ready to explode onto the scene. And Explode he did.

His first Tournament out of football saw him against New Orleans Jesuit (The Woodlands at the time) All-State wrestler Chris Molder, and Harris took it to him. This win quickly landed him on the rankings, but people continued to overlook him as a serious title contender (yours truly included).

Even after a Regional Finals win over three-time state qualifier Zach Nichols of Westside, he was still not picked by most to medal, let alone win the whole enchilada. But impressive wins over highly-regarded Aaron Pelletier and then Jeremy Watson in the Quarterfinals landed him in the finals.

Those two wins, both close, hard-fought decisions against more experienced opponents would have been impressive by anyone, but for a kid in his first time under the bright state lights of UIL state, it was awesome.

First timers don’t often fair well in Austin, but some special wrestlers, ones with ice water in their veins, thrive under the same lights that make others wilt. These wins made Harris look like he could be one of those guys.

The finals however took it a big step further. Harris trailed top ranked Brent Pardinek late in the match, but calmly scored a go-ahead takedown in the final minute. The seconds ticked away and he was a champion.

A storybook ending. Or, was it?

The referees conferred and made a technically-correct decision to pull Harris out of the stands 20 minutes after his hand was raised. His shoes were thrown over the railing to him. No way could he regain his focus. Or could he?

And then amidst a wildly-chanting crowd, he calmly re-wrestled the final 30 seconds. This time scoring 1/10 of a second before the buzzer to win it again! This was a case of a young man who would not be denied. Not just that night, but also all season. He started in the middle of the pack and ended up running away with the whole thing. And he was just a junior in his first full varsity season.

His improvement in 2006 was awesome and stands as a testament to his coach and himself. If he stays hungry and has the same type of improvement this year then JR needs to install him right now as the top Public School Wrestler and Recruit in the state of Texas.

Cinco Ranch meanwhile will be aiming for a pair of titles. Helping Harris will be Jamie Sheets (2004 champ, 2005 qualifier, 4th last year at 140), Will McNair (state runner-up last year at 180), and Nick Waltman (returning qualifier at 103).

The UIL title will take a few things going their way, but the Dual title is theirs for the taking. Not only do they return the whole team from last year, they will have the tournament in their own backyard, as the State Dual Tournament will take place in the new Merrell Center (http://merrellcenter.com/), the Katy district arena. That’s hot!

Here is a look at a possible lineup for Cinco, although I would expect them to use their depth to make lots of adjustments for duals over the year.

103/112 should be handled by JV kids or Kids program frosh
119 Nick Waltman, 12 (state qualifier, 39-7)
125 Will Tarallo, 11 (20-18)
130
135 Nick Tanory, 11 (22- 18, Regional Qualifier)
140 Brad Bartholomew, 11 (25- 19) / Morris, 10
145 Jamie Sheets, 12 (39- 4, 4th at state)
152 ???
160 Will Morris, 11 (10- 5, La. State Placer in 05’)
171 Matt Harris, 12, (45- 1, 1st at state)
180 ???
180/189 Will McNair, 12 (38- 4 2nd at State)
215 Matt Stewart, 11 (27- 12)
275 John Gioffre, 11 (23- 14)

Author’s Note: My aim with this column is to produce 100% positive media coverage for kids who don’t otherwise receive it. I have no desire to be “hard hitting”. I also cannot be everywhere at once. If you think I am wrong, tell me by responding to the column. I won’t take it personal. I’m not the authority on wrestling, I’m just a guy who knows how good Houston wrestling is, and wants everyone else to see it too.

Houston Power Rankings

1. Cinco Ranch (cincowrestling.org/): Have as much returning as anyone in the state, they are competitors for the UIL state title and favorites for the dual title.
2. Cy Fair: A big senior group with tons of youth experience that now enters second year with full-time high school coach.
3. Klein (kleinwrestling.com ): Best equipped to handle graduations due to their great depth, should be a top dual team again.
4. Woodlands (teacherweb.com/TX/TheWoodlandsHighSchool/Wrestling/ ): As always these guys could be anywhere in the top five depending on when you catch them.
5. Katy Taylor (mustangwrestler.com/): Loaded with juniors they could be the team to beat in 08’, can wrestle with anyone in a dual.
6. Klein Oak (kleinoakwrestling.com ): They graduated as much as anyone but they will stay near the top.
7. Houston Westside (geocities.com/sarchives/westside/): Also graduated a lot but have a lot returning as well.
8. Katy (katyathleticboosterclub.org/katywrestlingboys.htm ): They bring back almost the whole team and will need it in their district,
9. Mayde Creek (geocities.com/maydecreekwrestling ): Should be about like last year.
10. Brazoswood (www.angelfire.com/tx/bwoodwrestling/index.html): Very good depth for a developing program.
11. Beaumont Westbrook: Have been growing steadily for years.
12. Klein Collins: After years of building they graduated a lot and now rebuild for the first time.
13. Morton Ranch: Made big strides last year and the school has seniors for the first time ever now.
14. Friendswood: Will they drop after the loss of their coach?
15. St. Thomas: Lost their elite guys to graduation but still has some tough kids.

And Stay tuned for the full Houston Pre-Season Report Starting November 1st and leading up to the start of wrestling. If there is a story that you want to hear, or information you have to contribute, post a comment or email me at houston_wrestling@hotmail.com .

Let me begin my season wrap by saying that Houston Wrestling offers the best High School Coaching in the state.

Houston wrestling has been talked about the last few weeks, and ideas have been floated regarding its strength, and whether this was an “up” year. After watching the Houston performance in the state tournament, I can’t answer if it was an up year, but I can say this, Houston Wrestling offers the best High School Coaching in the state.

A deep look at the last few year’s state performance bears out this seemingly wild claim. Now don’t mistake me, Dallas wrestling is far superior to Houston wrestling, and I would go as far as to say that I would choose Dallas over the rest of the state combined, both in depth and in top wrestlers. However, the performance of Houston HIGH SCHOOL wrestling cannot be compared apples to apples with Dallas. The last few years reveal a trend in which the strength of Houston’s High School programs is displayed.

Wrestling in the Houston area exists with almost a total lack of youth wrestling. This is not a knock on the solid Spring Klein and CUMC programs, but most teams in the area have a total lack of youth wrestling. Not only is Dallas light years ahead, but panhandle and Austin Youth wrestling are also probably superior.

Consider this, out of every Houston area wrestler who competed this past weekend, there was exactly 1 returning state place winner, Shane Doughman. That’s right, just one. This is why I started off this season with an article titled “Change, Change, Change.” The area had lost so much that it was bound to be a down year. Recent results show a number of Dallas, Austin, and Panhandle wreslters achieving great success as underclassmen. These young guns then form the backbone of powerhouse teams for the next 2 to 3 seasons. On the other hand, the best Houston teams each year are typically made up of talented Seniors who are just beginning to peak and reach the State level. The Houston teams are built on high participation numbers and consistent coaching more than youth Wrestling and Fargo Participation. This is the amazing thing about Houston’s growing success the past few years, the names change every year. Last year Strake Jesuit burst onto the state scene with a large group of seniors, only to disappear this year. This year saw Klein emerge as a state Power with multiple state qualifiers and place winners, but with som many of them being seniors what does the future hold?

For supremely coached teams like Klein, Klein Oak, Bryan, and Westside, much like the Houston area, the names may change but the results will remain the same. Houston Coaches have as little to work with as anybody, yet instead of complaints or pleas for Dallas’ respect (like some areas of the state), Houston’s coaches simply go to work and let that respect come. And as area youth wrestling catches up and the number of programs continues to rise (7 new Houston teams in 07), the state as a whole can only benefit.

State Champions

Shane Doughman, Klein Oak, 119 lbs
Doughman won his 2nd state champion and made himself the 3rd most decorated Texas wrestler in the senior class of 2006 (Ben Ashmore and Fredercik Rowsey). His work ethic is awesome, but what seemed to make Shane Great was his ability to elevate himself to the level of the competition. With the great need at the NCAA level for 125 lb. wrestlers, Shane will be a huge blessing wherever he lands. Once he is immersed into a college room, his will to win should lead him places few Texans have gone.

Kyle Jones, Klein Collins, 215
The first Houston Report of the year listed Collins as a team ready to break through under coach Kenny Rucker, and with 2 state qualifers and the schools first state champion, I would say that happened. In the greatest compliment I can think to pay somebody, Jones was for lack of a better word a “poor man’s” James Aston. Again this is a pure compliment, as I never thought I would be able to see that combination of size and athleticism again so soon. Jones was perhaps the best defensive wrestler in the state, bar none. He is never out of position, and is almost impossible to take down. As he continues to develop as a technical wrestler he will be a force to be reckoned with. He has only scratched the surface of his ability, and in the right circumstances, he could easily flourish in a college room, facing top competition on a regular basis. On a pure potential basis, he has the ability to do things at the next level that nobody in Texas not named Ben Ashmore can accomplish.

Matt Harris, Cinco Ranch, 160 lbs.
“Matt Harris wins 2nd state Championship… and First”
This could have been the headline, but it is a shame that the controversy at the end is what people remember most about the 160 state finals. The truth is that the headline should have been about the amazing story of the Cinco Ranch 2 sport star who won his first state title this year after not even making it past the district tournament last year (he was stuck behind a pair of Senior State qualifiers).

Harris represents a team that was supposed to be rebuilding after graduating one of the toughest senior classes in recent history (Champion Benavides, finalist and 2X qualifier Roman, place winner Vasquez, and 2X qualifier Ruland amongst others). Cinco Ranch finished out of the money multiple times in the early going this season. They lost duals to teams they have beaten for years. At Christmas it looked like this was the year to beat Cinco if you were ever going to do it. However, after another district title and a top 5 state finish (something the previous senior laden team failed to do), it is time to look at Coach Dushane for what he is, one of the state’s best Coaches, and probably the best developer of talent. Cinco Ranch is a factory, they produce High School wrestlers, and it just so happens that next year’s team might be their best output ever. They graduate exactly one wrestler from this year’s State Duals lineup, and though solid, he was not one of their best. They return a state champion, a state finalist, a state place winner (and former state champ), a state qualifier, along with their next 10 best wrestlers. If they are able to keep their heads screwed on right after reading articles like this, they should enter the season as favorites not just for next February in Austin, but for wherever the State dual Tournament is held (Katy’s new facility perhaps). So I guess I sum up Houston Wrestling like this…

The names change (for everyone but Cinco Ranch) but the results remain the same.

Let me begin my season wrap by saying that Houston Wrestling offers the best High School Coaching in the state.

Houston wrestling has been talked about the last few weeks, and ideas have been floated regarding its strength, and whether this was an “up” year. After watching the Houston performance in the state tournament, I can’t answer if it was an up year, but I can say this, Houston Wrestling offers the best High School Coaching in the state.

A deep look at the last few year’s state performance bears out this seemingly wild claim. Now don’t mistake me, Dallas wrestling is far superior to Houston wrestling, and I would go as far as to say that I would choose Dallas over the rest of the state combined, both in depth and in top wrestlers. However, the performance of Houston HIGH SCHOOL wrestling cannot be compared apples to apples with Dallas. The last few years reveal a trend in which the strength of Houston’s High School programs is displayed.

Wrestling in the Houston area exists with almost a total lack of youth wrestling. This is not a knock on the solid Spring Klein and CUMC programs, but most teams in the area have a total lack of youth wrestling. Not only is Dallas light years ahead, but panhandle and Austin Youth wrestling are also probably superior.

Consider this, out of every Houston area wrestler who competed this past weekend, there was exactly 1 returning state place winner, Shane Doughman. That’s right, just one. This is why I started off this season with an article titled “Change, Change, Change.” The area had lost so much that it was bound to be a down year. Recent results show a number of Dallas, Austin, and Panhandle wreslters achieving great success as underclassmen. These young guns then form the backbone of powerhouse teams for the next 2 to 3 seasons. On the other hand, the best Houston teams each year are typically made up of talented Seniors who are just beginning to peak and reach the State level. The Houston teams are built on high participation numbers and consistent coaching more than youth Wrestling and Fargo Participation. This is the amazing thing about Houston’s growing success the past few years, the names change every year. Last year Strake Jesuit burst onto the state scene with a large group of seniors, only to disappear this year. This year saw Klein emerge as a state Power with multiple state qualifiers and place winners, but with som many of them being seniors what does the future hold?

For supremely coached teams like Klein, Klein Oak, Bryan, and Westside, much like the Houston area, the names may change but the results will remain the same. Houston Coaches have as little to work with as anybody, yet instead of complaints or pleas for Dallas’ respect (like some areas of the state), Houston’s coaches simply go to work and let that respect come. And as area youth wrestling catches up and the number of programs continues to rise (7 new Houston teams in 07), the state as a whole can only benefit.

State Champions

Shane Doughman, Klein Oak, 119 lbs
Doughman won his 2nd state champion and made himself the 3rd most decorated Texas wrestler in the senior class of 2006 (Ben Ashmore and Fredercik Rowsey). His work ethic is awesome, but what seemed to make Shane Great was his ability to elevate himself to the level of the competition. With the great need at the NCAA level for 125 lb. wrestlers, Shane will be a huge blessing wherever he lands. Once he is immersed into a college room, his will to win should lead him places few Texans have gone.

Kyle Jones, Klein Collins, 215
The first Houston Report of the year listed Collins as a team ready to break through under coach Kenny Rucker, and with 2 state qualifers and the schools first state champion, I would say that happened. In the greatest compliment I can think to pay somebody, Jones was for lack of a better word a “poor man’s” James Aston. Again this is a pure compliment, as I never thought I would be able to see that combination of size and athleticism again so soon. Jones was perhaps the best defensive wrestler in the state, bar none. He is never out of position, and is almost impossible to take down. As he continues to develop as a technical wrestler he will be a force to be reckoned with. He has only scratched the surface of his ability, and in the right circumstances, he could easily flourish in a college room, facing top competition on a regular basis. On a pure potential basis, he has the ability to do things at the next level that nobody in Texas not named Ben Ashmore can accomplish.

Matt Harris, Cinco Ranch, 160 lbs.
“Matt Harris wins 2nd state Championship… and First”
This could have been the headline, but it is a shame that the controversy at the end is what people remember most about the 160 state finals. The truth is that the headline should have been about the amazing story of the Cinco Ranch 2 sport star who won his first state title this year after not even making it past the district tournament last year (he was stuck behind a pair of Senior State qualifiers).

Harris represents a team that was supposed to be rebuilding after graduating one of the toughest senior classes in recent history (Champion Benavides, finalist and 2X qualifier Roman, place winner Vasquez, and 2X qualifier Ruland amongst others). Cinco Ranch finished out of the money multiple times in the early going this season. They lost duals to teams they have beaten for years. At Christmas it looked like this was the year to beat Cinco if you were ever going to do it. However, after another district title and a top 5 state finish (something the previous senior laden team failed to do), it is time to look at Coach Dushane for what he is, one of the state’s best Coaches, and probably the best developer of talent. Cinco Ranch is a factory, they produce High School wrestlers, and it just so happens that next year’s team might be their best output ever. They graduate exactly one wrestler from this year’s State Duals lineup, and though solid, he was not one of their best. They return a state champion, a state finalist, a state place winner (and former state champ), a state qualifier, along with their next 10 best wrestlers. If they are able to keep their heads screwed on right after reading articles like this, they should enter the season as favorites not just for next February in Austin, but for wherever the State dual Tournament is held (Katy’s new facility perhaps). So I guess I sum up Houston Wrestling like this…

The names change (for everyone but Cinco Ranch) but the results remain the same.

State Title Contenders

Eric Spjut of The Woodlands has to be seen as a favorite in the 112 lb. weight class. His performance all season has been a model of consistency. To see this level of talent in a Freshman is not unheard of, but to see such a young wrestler perform at such a high level without a letdown speaks of Spjut’s maturity, not just his ability. His road to the finals will be a tough one, as an unexpected upset in Region 2 put fellow Freshman Jeremy Sandoval of Colleyville Heritage in line to be his quarterfinal opponent (just the type of letdown and upset loss that is understandable in even the most talented freshmen). This match-up would appear to be the best ever between 2 Texas Freshman, but it does not end there for Spjut. His next opponent would likely be last year’s state runner-up and current 50-0 wrestler Brandon McDonald of Canyon Randall. This gauntlet would then end with a state finals opponent that could easily be George Goganas of Austin Bowie, a returning state place winner in his own right. Now all these match-ups are extremely hypothetical, as post-season wrestling does not go according to script, but if Spjut does indeed face this path (toughest ever?) on route to the title, he would have to take the nod as Most Outstanding Wrestler.

Shane Doughman of Klein Oak is a returning State Champion at 119, and it looks like he will let nothing stand in his way this year. Doughman continues to be overlooked as an elite wrestler, but to realize how impressive last year’s win was, you must consider that the wrestlers he defeated in that 119 state title run last year, are now the favorites in 3 other weight classes this year (Sandoval 125, Kitchen 130, Peterson 135). His finals pin over fellow state champ Andre Taylor of Plano East at Regionals was the kind of dominance shown by elite wrestlers. He is undoubtedly one of Texas’ 5 best wrestlers overall this year, and I would bet on him turning into a fine 125 for some lucky college in the future.

Colin McElroy of The Woodlands was named in this column as the Houston wrestler most likely to go from 2005 non-state qualifier to 2006 State Champion, and I am standing by that prediction right now. He struggled through injuries at times this year, but is healthy and on a roll after defeating Austin Cordova of Lake Highlands by fall in the Regional Finals. He is a high energy wrestler prone to both the big move, and also to giving away the big move, so his potential semi-finals match-up with cradle expert Jimmy Peterson of SA Madison should be one of the most exciting of the tournament.

Jamie Sheets of Cinco Ranch is a junior seeking his 2nd state championship, winning as a freshman and finishing out of the money last year. His toughest competition in the 140 lb. weight class appears to be another 2004 state champ who was knocked of in 2005 and seeks to return to the top in 2006, Michael Gerber of Canyon Randall. The two already wrestled a 3-1 match with Gerber coming out on top. Sheets has his work cut out for him to add his 2nd title, but he has already proven the ability to win the big match.

Others with a chance

130
Patrick Blakely, Westside, very hot and cold, but a good day could win it for him.

145
Michael Murray, Cy Fair, lack of big matches showed at Regionals but I still say he is the best in state.

160
Matt Harris, Cinco Ranch / Zach Nichols, Westside, Both are underdogs for finals of this deep weight, but I just enjoy listing these two together after their battle for the Regional final.

171
Joey Depew, Taylor, A great chance to be in the finals, Corry was his worst match-up and he now has Covey to take care of that. Re-match of one point loss to #1 Covey would be fun.

215
Kyle Jones, Klein Collins, Strong, Athletic, and nearly impossible to score on. He is not outstanding offensively, but he is great when it comes to stance and position.

This list is not exhaustive, but it is the wrestlers I would expect to make noise this weekend. However, I hope to be writing an article next Saturday night about someone who came from off this list to make everyone take notice. Good luck Houston Wrestlers.

Allen High School appears to be the class of the field. They are a deep team who will score in volume with seven wrestlers looking like favorites to advance to state, and multiple others with real chances. They won’t likely have many individual champions (103 Simmons is the only top ranked wrestler on this list), but I think they will all be called champions by the end of the day. They have 11 wrestlers competing.

Lake Highlands has the depth to match Allen in number of place winners, but they may not have as many high place winners. They are led by Marx at 171, who faces a pair of returning state qualifiers in Joey Depew and Austin Spires. Their 13 overall qualifiers should make the team race with Allen very interesting.

Cinco Ranch does not match Allen’s depth, but they have 2 likely champions in Jamie Sheets (140) and Matt Harris (160), and as many as 4 other wrestlers who should place and could advance to state. They have 9 overall regional qualifiers, a very high number for their district.

The Woodlands has fallen since there early season excellence, but expect them to have things back in order for the Regional tournament. Freshman Eric Spjut begins his quest for his first state title. Austin’s matchup with Jeremy Sandoval may be the best matchup of 2 Texas Freshman ever. Lets hope the state matrix makes it a finals matchup.

Klein Oak led by Shane Doughman (119) should make plenty of noise. They are missing some guys they thought would be here, but they remain capable of a high place. Rockwall, Klein, Westside and Bryan also have the guns to crack the top 5.

103
1. Simmons, Allen
2. Morgan, Katy, 10, extremely physical and athletic, dangerous on top,
3. Waltman, Cinco, 11, very skilled smart wrestler
4. Granados, LH, another athlete in a weight with very few,
HM
Chiak, RW,
Davis, KO,
Aguilar, BRY, made big strides over the season
Stenstrom, PW,
Doan, Plano
Espinoza, Conroe
Hutto, KO
Oporta, Lee

112
1. Spjut, TWHS, 9, superfrosh is the class of the region,
2. Benoit, McN, any other year he would look like a contender for the state title,
3. Nguyen, KL, 11,
4. Carrathers, Allen
HM
Hill, RW
Glenn, Katy, 11
Salazar, BRY
Nguyen, MC, 12
Fleichman, FWD

119
1. Doughman, KO, 12, two returning state champs in one regional,
2. Taylor, PE,
3. Castro, KL, 12
4. Larrington, Cy-Fair, 12, 4th is definitely up for grabs,
HM
Barnes, RW
Nicholson, WS, 11
Bernstein, Allen
Brown, TAY, 10
Loveall, BWD,
Rose, LH
Havard, MC

125
1. Campos, OAK, 12, victory over Allen should make him #1 seed,
2. Stell, LH,
3. Allen, KO, 12,
4. McCain, Cy Fair
HM:
Cole, MC, 12
Traver, Klein
E. Benitez, RW,
Nahhas, TAY, 10
Abissi, WS, 12
Callard, Quinlan
McCabe, DJ
Langford, TWHS

130
1. Kitchen, Plano East, final w/ Blakely will be highlight match,
2. Blakely, WS, 12
3. Smedley, Allen, how he looks at 130 is a wildcard, could be atop the podium,
4. Aguilar, BRY, 12
HM:
Bubb, MC,12
Marx, LH,
Renfro, KL
Rascon, TWHS
Glass, Richardson
Tannory, Cinco

135
1. Sojourner, McKinney,
2. McElroy, TWHS, 12
3. Cordova, LH,
4. Pikulski, Cy Fair, someone will benefit from Williams’ absence,
HM:
Hsu, Klein,
Holden, Katy
Fuentes, WS
Terrell, Allen
Miranda, BWD
Almaraz, MR

140
1. Sheets, Cinco, 11, still looking for first regional title believe it or not,
2. Carrerra, Allen
3. Lybrand, LH
4. Hasson, Cy Fair, 11
HM:
Rivas, TWHS, 12
Quiroz, KF
Lowry, WS
Lyle,

145
1. Bash, DJ, returning qualifier gets nod,
2. Murray, Cy Fair, 11, if lack of competition does not hurt him I will bet on him for Austin right now
3. Contreras, Allen
4. Elizondo, Bryan, 12
HM:
Lowery, Morton Ranch, 11
Williams, WB
McSloy, MC, 12
Grieder, LH
Riggs, TWHS
Hazard, WS, 10

152
1. Couch, KL, 12, this weight is up for grabs,
2. Wilkison, Allen
3. Harris, LH
4. Wisnoski, KO, 12
HM:
Dickinson, TWHS, 12
Williams, Katy, 11
Davis, RW,
Patterson, CR,
Wheeler, WS
Reaud, CF,

160
1. Harris, Cinco, 11
2. Nichols, WS, 12
3. Bowen, Allen
4. Guillory, FWD
HM:
White, RW
Dockery, BRY, 12
Fortner, KO
Inman, Tay,
Gaume, TWHS

171
1. Depew, TAY, 12, should be a great finals match either way,
2. Marx, LH,
3. Spires, TWHS, 12, recently beat Gambordella,
4. Carter, RW???
HM:
Morris, CR, Louisiana state place winner and recent move-in,
Bayman, DJ
Thomas, KL
Adams, RW
Bufford, Brazos.
Gage, OR

180
1. Rinaldi, DJ
2. McNair, CR, 11
3. Nijoka, SJ, 11
4. Winkler, LH,
HM:
Adams, RW
Withers, Allen
Gyuircza, Klein Forest

189
1. Carapeythean, Richardson
2. Moulton, WB
3. Neuhoff, DJ
4. Koening, TAY, 11
HM:
Tullos, WS
Dott, A&M
Burkheiser, BRY
Davis, Katy

215
1. Jones, KC, 11, should not be challenged,
HM:
Clickner, FWD
Harding, Lancaster
Tores, CYR,
Selly, DJ
Miller, KL
Stewart, CR, 12

275
Brutal weight class, one of Region 3’s worst in a long time.
HM:
Zgabay, BRY, 12
Woodard, WS
Brown, KC
Gonzalez, Conroe
Benson, MC 11
Cantelmo, Cy Fair
Lopez, DJ
Lee, McKinney
Gioffe, CR

Katy District
This district could be considered the “Grand-daddy” of them all in regards to Houston Wrestling, but unlike years past, don’t expect any of these schools to contend for a high state finish. It seems every school is in rebuilding mode this year, though any of the top 4 teams (Cinco, Taylor, Katy, and Mayde Creek in that order) are capable of a top 10 Regional finish. And while this year is different than past years, some things remain the same. Expect Cinco to once again hold up the district crown.

unknown fact: Cinco Ranch 171 Morris is a January move-in and former state place winner in Louisiana.

Klein District
This district is clearly the toughest in the area this year, and should lead the way in terms of # of State Qualifiers, and highest placing team. But before seeing this district crown some individual state championships, the district tournament should be a dogfight. Expect Klein’s depth to lead them to the title, followed by Bryan, Klein Oak (who again has the ability to finish high at state), and Klein Collins.

unknown fact: Klein Oak finished 3rd at both district and state last year.

Woodlands District: This used to basically be a one team district, and although the Woodlands will still dominate the team score, the # of legit teams behind them makes up for the lack of a true 2nd power. Expect the Woodlands to be followed by Brazoswood, Friendswood, Westbrook, Conroe, and Oak Ridge.

Cy Fair District
This district has scored 1 combined State Tournament point in the history of its existence (Jonathon Ekster, Cy Fair 2004). This embarrassing fact is explained partially by the short history of the district, but also partially by the half committment from the district (all 7 schools initially shared one coach). However, the scene has changed this year. There are now 5 head coaches in the district, and the rest of the state will see in the coming years what makes 17-5A the deepest and most competitive district in the state in Football and other sports. Cy Fair High School has their own coach for the first time this year and should add their first district title with ease, as they boast a lineup filled with state ranked wrestlers. They should be followed by Langham Creek, Cy Ridge, Cy Springs, and Cy Falls.

HISD
Westside remains lord of this district, and expect them to move 14-15 wrestlers to Regionals again this year. Their JV would easily place 2nd if allowed to compete. Bellaire should be a distant 2nd.

Region 3 Rankings
These were compiled with much Dallas and Houston input but are still likely terrible. District should clear up the weight class issues, but more results are needed. Also the top Dallas wrestlers are listed for the most part, but I am sure the middle level ones are missing.

103
1. Simmons, Allen
2. Morgan, Katy, 10
3. Waltman, Cinco, 11
4. Granados, LH,
HM
Chiak, RW,
Davis, KO
Aguilar, BRY
Stenstrom, PW,
Doan, Plano
Espinoza, Conroe
Hutto, KO
Oporta, Lee

112
1. Spjut, TWHS, 9
2. Benoit, McN,
3. Nguyen, KL, 11,
4. Hill, RW
HM
Glenn, Katy, 11
Salazar, BRY
Nguyen, MC, 12
Carrathers, Allen
Fleichman, FWD

119
1. Doughman, KO, 12
2. Taylor, PE,
3. Castro, KL, 12
4. Larrington, Cy-Fair, 12
HM
Barnes, RW
Nicholson, WS, 11
Brown, TAY, 10
Loveall, BWD,
Rose, LH
Havard, MC
Grant, Brazos

125
1. Allen, KO, 12
2. Stell, LH
3. Campos, OAK, 12
4. McCain, Cy Fair
HM:
Cole, MC, 12
E. Benitez, RW,
Traver, Klein
Nahhas, TAY, 10
Abissi, WS, 12
McCabe, DJ
Langford, TWHS

130
1. Kitchen
2. Blakely, WS, 12
3. Smedley, Allen
4. Aguilar, BRY, 12
HM:
Bubb, MC,12
Marx, LH,
McCain, Cy Fair, 12, ???, is he wrestling
Renfro, KL
Rascon, TWHS

135
1. Sojourner, McKinney
2. McElroy, TWHS, 12
3. Cordova, LH
4. Harris, FWD, 12
HM:
Hsu, Klein,
Pikulski, Cy Fair
Holden, Katy
Fuentes, WS
Kovacs, TWHS

140
1. Sheets, Cinco, 11
2. Carrerra, Allen
3. Lybrand, LH
4. Hasson, Cy Fair, 11
HM:
Rivas, TWHS, 12
Carstens, KL
Risinger, WB
Lowry, WS
Salains, Lamar
Mugavro, Cy Ridge

145
1. Murray, Cy Fair, 11
2. Bash, DJ
3. Contreras, Allen
4. Elizondo, Bryan, 12
HM:
Lowery, Morton Ranch, 11
McSloy, MC, 12
Grieder, LH
Gaume, TWHS
Hazard, WS, 10

152
1. Couch, KL, 12
2. Wilkison, Allen
3. Harris, LH
4. Wisnoski, KO, 12
HM:
Dickinson, TWHS, 12
Williams, Katy, 11
Davis, RW,
Patterson, CR,
Wheeler, WS

160
1. Harris, Cinco, 11
2. Nichols, WS, 12
3. Guillory, FWD
4. White, RW
HM:
Dockery, BRY, 12
Fortner, KO
Inman, Tay,

171
1. Marx, LH
2. Depew, TAY, 12
3. Spires, TWHS, 12
4. Morris, CR
HM:
Gore, WS,
Bayman, DJ
Thomas, KL
Adams, RW
Bufford, Brazos.
Gage, OR

180
1. Christoph, RW
2. Rinaldi, DJ
3. McNair, CR, 11
4. Shabaan, WS, 11
HM:
Nijoka, SJ, 11
Winkler, LH,
Gyuircza, Klein Forest

189
1. Carapeythean, Richardson
2. Moulton, WB
3. Neuhoff, DJ
4. Koening, TAY, 11
HM:
Tullos, WS
Dott, A&M
Burkheiser, BRY
Davis, Katy

215
1. Jones, KC, 11
2. Clickner, FWD
HM:
Tores, CYR,
Selly, DJ
Wiggins, Allen
Miller, KL
Stewart, CR, 12
Smith, TWHS, 12

275
HM:
Zgabay, BRY, 12
Woodard, WS
Brown, KC
Gonzaler, Conroe
Roach, Oak Ridge
Benson, MC 11
Cantelmo, Cy Fair
Lopez, DJ
Lee, McKinney
Gioffe, CR

The Houston City Duals will be the biggest event of its kind in the state. Most importantly it will crown who the best in the area really is, and will also decide the area’s 4 representatives for the state dual tournament. It has always been an unfortunate joke that we invite/appoint teams to the “STATE” Dual tournament, rather than having some kind of qualifier. This selected field means the teams who call themselves “State” champions at the end are really not. This is not to take away from them, they are worthy champions, they are just not state champions if everyone in the state is not somehow involved.

Congratulations to Houston for taking a step in fixing this problem, and allowing the best to truly earn their state championships. We in Houston urge and challenge Dallas and the rest of the state to do the same. How can we ever hope for the UIL to treat it as a state title if we do not.

But this is no longer a problem for Houston. Instead of a problem we will have a great treat, as the area’s best dual teams will meet for the opportunity to represent Houston in the State Dual Championships.

The field for the tournament is as follows. Klein Oak, Klein Collins, Klein, Bryan, The Woodlands, Katy Taylor, Cinco Ranch, Mayde Creek, Strake Jesuit, Westside, and Cy-Fair. This will be the first time in memory that every top Houston team has been in one place with their full lineup. In past years, even the biggest tournaments had at least a few top area teams absent due to travel or other reasons, but this weekend will settle city bragging rights decisively.

The favorite for this inaugural Houston dual tournament has to be Bryan High School. Back in the beginning of November when this year’s first Houston Report accompanied the re-launch of this site, I wrote this about Bryan, “they will not likely go unnoticed this year, as they boast one of the state’s toughest dual lineups.” This statement has been proved true by Bryan over the course of the season, as they remain undefeated in duals, wrestling one of the toughest schedules in the city, including wins over Klein, Klein Oak, Cinco Ranch, and Katy. Bryan features a balanced lineup with no real holes. They are led by Senior Returning State Qualifier Luis Aguilar who boasts a 24-1 record on the season. Look for them to be the team to beat this weekend, and one of the toughest teams in Dallas on January 21.

The Woodlands is a team that is a mystery. They have the talent, even after losing to top wrestlers back to NO Jesuit, to compete with anybody in the state, but January finds them a little beat up and out of sorts. The early December Woodlands team would have been a probable favorite, and offered Houston a genuine hope to bring home the state championship. However, with top wrestler Colin McElroy and Heavyweight Matt Hinton among others injured, they enter this weekend simply hoping to get healthy in time for a February run. Their overall team depth gives them a chance to still crack the top 4 this weekend.

Klein is another team in the mold of Bryan, with no superstar, but also no real holes in a dual match. They had a hot start in November, and remain a threat to win the whole thing. Klein Oak is a stronger large tournament team then their district rivals Bryan and Klein, but they are also a tough dual lineup against the right matchup. They are led by their lower-middle weights featuring State Champion Shane Doughman (119), Blake Allen (125), returning State Finalist Kody Williams (135), and Josh Wisnoski (145). They use this great run of wrestlers to maximum effect, never being afraid to bump a wrestler. Westside is, like The Woodlands, tough to figure out. They have more solid wrestlers then anyone knows what to do with, but they can look unbeatable one week, and come back to earth the next (as they did in a loss to Klein Oak). If they wrestle well, look for them to be in the finals, with a chance to win the whole thing. Cinco Ranch is the last of the “favorites” to advance, and they are similar to Klein Oak in boasting some great wrestlers, but also some holes. They were recently defeated 39-30 in San Antonio by a solid Roosevelt team who was able to exploit there lineup holes.

The bottom line is the healthiest, most ready on that day team will likely win. But either way these six teams will likely account for the 4 qualifiers, with me predicting a tight rematch between Bryan and Klein in the finals. Here are the results from their recent dual.

BRYAN 38 KLEIN 37
103: JAV. AGUILAR (BRY) PIN DORAN (KL)
112: SALAZAR (BRY) 0VER NGUYEN (KL) 10-2 MAJ. DEC.
119: CASTRO (KL) PIN OTTOWAY (BRY)
125: MEEKMA (BRY) OVER HSU (KL) 5-3 O.T.
130: RENFRO (KL) OVER AL. AGUILAR (BRY) TECH. FALL
135: L. AGUILAR (BRY) OVER TREVOR (KL) 2-0
140: CARSTENS (KL) OVER LUCE (BRY) 11-6
145: ELIZONDO (BRY)OVER PEARSON (KL) 11-2 MAJ. DEC.
152: SCHULTZ (KL) OVER OROZCO (BRY) 16-0 TECH. FALL
160: COUCH (KL) PIN DOCKERY (BRY)
171: DODDS (BRY) PIN CHISTOPHER (KL)
180: PARK (KL) PIN BURKHEISER (BRY)
189: HINEY (BRY) W, FORFEIT
215: MILLER (KL) PIN DORN (BRY)
275: ZGBAY (BRY) W, FORFEIT

(a special thanks to Houston City Duals host Travis Ribordy of Klein Oak and anyone else who helped make this idea happen)

Russell Pate

(Be sure to scroll to the bottom to catch Houston State duals discussion)

The first half of the season wound down for Houston as it always does, with the Doc Hess tournament at Bryan High School. However, this year’s tournament was anything but routine.

The top of the Tournament was no surprise to anyone, as a very deep Arlington Bowie team used a balanced lineup to finish ahead of their many challengers. Bowie was led by the individual performance of Brent Rodgers (145), Luke Brigmon (152), Chris Corry (171), and Derek Moore (180) who all won their superfinals matchup. Corry was the most impressive, as his combination of strength and athleticism proved a brutal matchup for finals opponent Joey Depew. Depew was beaten 10-0 in a match that exposed all of the weaknesses that remain in a wrestler who has worked his way into one of the state’s best. Depew was coming off of a weekend when he lost a pair of 1 point decisions to top ranked Spencer Covey of Coppell, but he looked lost against Corry. Depew cranked the pace as he always does, but appeared to be just late in finishing in every scramble opportunity, meaning he got beat in his own kind of match. Although it seems logical he will come out on top of at least one scramble position next time, Depew fans better hope it is Corry is on the other side of the bracket come state time, because he appears to be the Taylor stars Kryptonite.

Bryan took advantage of the home cooking to finish 2nd with an impressive 227 points. They actually led going into the Superfinals, where Bowie claimed 4 wins (each bout was counted as 10 team points, an invented scoring system that definitely hurt the home team). Bryan turned in a well-balanced performance that showcased their team’s great depth. Returning state qualifier Louis Aguilar led the team with a Superfinals win at 130 by forfeit over Cory Miller of Martin who had departed for home already.

After the top 2 is where things got confusing. Mayde Creek finished 3rd with 183.5 despite only having 1 finalist. This points out the oddities of team score in a 2 bracket system. Their Heavyweight Zac Benson did look good in winning his weight. Mayde Creek was followed by St. Thomas with 161 who rode the strength of 3 finalists, champion Thompson (140) and runners-up Mancha (189) and Rossi (275). They were the opposite of the deeper teams ahead of them as they received most of their points from a few wrestlers.

These 4 teams were followed in the top 10 by some of the state’s top teams in The Woodlands, Klein Oak, Klein, Cinco Ranch, Arlington Martin, and San Antonio Madison.

2nd Half Preview

The 2nd half features some great dual action from the start. Cinco Ranch, Strake Jesuit and Westside will head to The Grapevine Duals this first weekend, while Katy, The Woodlands, and Friendswood all head to Lonestar Duals. Expect mixed results as some of these teams will battle for championships, while some are simply looking for a step up in competition and a chance to build their programs. We have much respect for anyone willing to wrestle these kinds of schedules.

The following weekend will see all of Houston’s best in one regular season tournament for perhaps the first time ever. The Houston City Duals will be the biggest event of its kind in the state. Most importantly it will crown who the best in the area really is, but it will also decide the area’s 4 representatives for the state dual tournament. It has always been a sad joke that we invite/appoint teams to the “STATE” Dual tournament, rather than having some kind of qualifier, and the teams who call themselves “State” champions are really not. This is not to take away from them, they are worthy champions, they are just not state champions if everyone in the state is not somehow involved.

Congratulations to Houston for taking a step in fixing this problem, and allowing the best to truly earn their state championships. We in Houston urge and challenge Dallas and the rest of the state to do the same. How can we ever hope for the UIL to treat it as a state title if we do not.

(a special thanks to Houston City Duals host Travis Ribordy of Klein Oak and anyone else who helped make this idea happen)