Page 113 - 2007.Millard.North

pages by Emily Giller and Laura Johnson

(A.Coach Brad Edmund-
son blows his whistle for
wrestlers to begin a practice
wrestle. The team practiced
everyday after school for
almost three hours. photo by
Kristen Block B.Freshman
Gil Allgood tackles his oppo-
nent. Allgood and other wres-
tlers worked during practices
on new moves and perfecting
the old moves. photo contrib-
uted by ChampShots]

"Take him down!" was one of the many encouraging phrases that the audiences at MN wrestling tourna-
ments were known to scream. Having a large crowd in the stands was a goal wrestlers worked to achieve
and this was accomplished during the state tournament.
"My favorite part about this season was when we wrestled in front of a near sellout crowd in the state
tournament at the Qwest Center because it really motivated me to do my best," senior Josh Heinke said.
Although students warmed up during the practices together, some members found a way to get pumped
using their planned technique.
"We ran and drilled our moves as a team. I also listened to my iPod before the match or practice, because
it helped me get pumped. We have been known to yell 'shake and bake' on three," junior Taylor Vaughn
said.
Working through the pain of practices was one of the many things which allowed the wrestling team to
earn the title of district champs.
"I was really glad our practices were such a challenge because they helped us to prepare for tournaments
so we could become district champs," Heinke said.
Although wrestlers worked toward the same goal of defeating the opponent, some chose to pursue the
sport because it provided a challenge that would be faced alone.
"My favorite part about wrestling was how challenging it was because it was one-on-one, and I really
liked the fact that wrestling was broken up by weights, which made it more of a challenge," Vaughn said.
As students became district champs and performed at state, the team became known for their ability to
"shake and bake" and for their endurance.

photos contributed by Shari Heinke •
Erik Vance, 12

Tyler Tews, 11