State of the Program ... Mainland (FL)
Mainland (FL)
Head Coach: Matt Lawrence (entering 5th season)
Staff: Karol Piedad, Helena Carey, Andrew Wang
The Bucs return a ton, but also lose a few … Coach Lawrence has some hammers in the mix - the question is - how many will step up and make some noise this year? Kaden Golder transferred to Matanzas for his senior campaign and the Bucs lose Kalyb Evans, June Rivera, and Jeffery Turner. None were superstars, but each competed in the post-season … so replacing them will be key.
This team is has a heavy Senior presence … meaning they have had the experiences - the next step is to overcome those region losses and punch their ticket to Kissimmee. Brian Harris, Dasaniel Rodriguez, and Sam Ayodele should hold down the middle of the lineup … each won matches at regions a season ago and each will look to punch their ticket this season. Keep an eye on fellow Seniors Hayden Hellman, Isaiah White, Josh Newman, and Alex Shallop … if Mainland is going to make waves this year it could be up to those four to make an impact. Also keep an eye on Christian Hudson and Illinois move-in Micah McGuire … both should help solidify the top of the Buc lineup.
“The team has a lot of returning regional qualifiers and a lot of returning seniors. We are looking to progress several on to the state tournament where they can make some noise.”
NOTE: All mentions of placers and qualifiers in the body are based on the 2021-22 season. If a wrestler placed higher or lower in a previous year it is not captured above.