Once again, it is the time of the year to roll out the mats because wrestling season is back in action. For all of the Xavier wrestlers, this means the beginning of cutting weight, getting conditioned, and buckling in for an intense season ahead. Junior Keegan Schultschik is far too familiar with this annual routine.

“I’m looking forward to getting back on the mat and having fun with my teammates,” Schultschik said.

Last season, Schultschik placed first at districts in his weight class to make it to the state competition. Although he lost in the first round at state and did not place, Schultschik looks to return stronger than ever this season.

“It felt great being able to go to the state tournament and wrestle under the lights at the Wells Fargo Arena,” Schultschik said.

Schultschik’s hard work did not go unnoticed last season as he was named Second Team All-Metro at 120 pounds.

“Keegan has always had the skills of a good wrestler. He is now starting to see results of his hard work and gaining a lot of confidence,” head coach Ryan Chambers said. “He has put in a lot of extra wrestling during the offseason, which will pay off.”

With his eyes focused on the new season at hand, Schultschik is eager to get back to work on the mats.

“I feel great heading into the season because I have been practicing throughout the summer and fall,” Schultschik said. “My goals this year are to win the MVC tournament, repeat as a district champion, and place in the top five at state.”

Coach Chambers anticipates much from Schultschik this season.

“My expectations for Keegan are no different than his own.  He wants to win a state title,” Chambers said. “Before he does that, he needs to focus on one match at a time and the results will come.”

The Saints opened up the wrestling season on December 1 at Cedar Rapids Washington.