Clover wrestling coach optimistic about new season

Coach Mike Fitzgerald is excited about the wrestling season at Clover High School.

“We have a really good group of seniors,” he said. “They’ve gone through a lot the past three years. They’re really xcited to get their chance to lead this team.”

The CHS wrestlers started their season today at Eastside.

“We work a lot on our technique over the summer and camp,” coach said. “At the same time, we maintain the technique but we really push a lot more of the stamina, conditioning and mat situations.”

Jharee Kerns, who competes in the 145-pound weight class, has been with the program for five years.

“It means a lot to me,” Kerns said. “It requires a lot of motivation and dedication to the sport.”

Kerns said a wrestler’s mindset has a lot to do with success on the mat.

“You’ve got to want it,” he said. “You can be as strong as you want and have as much technique as you need, but if you don’t want it, it doesn’t matter.”

Evan Johnson, at 160 pounds, is a fifth-year varsity participant.

“I had to work at it,” he said. “We had a great program when I started out. They teach you a lot.”

Johnson is eager for the season.

“It is my senior year and my last chance to shoot for the stars,” he said.

Karson McCarter, at 132, is a four-year competitor.

“High school wrestling requires a lot of hard work and spending the time it takes to succeed,” he said. “It’s not all about strength. It plays a big role. But really, it’s all about how you wrestle your opponent. It’s technique more than anything else.”

Ross Bradley, at 170 pounds, has been in competitive wrestling since seventh grade.

“I hope to show senior leadership this season,” he said. “We’ve got a busy slate this year, a lot of opportunities.”

Bradley’s formula for success is threefold: stamina, motivation and technique.

“Your opponent might be bigger and stronger,” he said. “But as long as you have those three, you can compete.”

This story was originally published December 4, 2015 at 2:24 PM with the headline "Clover wrestling coach optimistic about new season."