State of the Program ... Hillgrove (GA)
Hillgrove (GA)
The Hawks finished 24th at the 7A Traditional State Tournament in 2021, but return a ton of talent and should be back in the mix for a top 10 finish in 2022. The Hawks are led by State Runner-up Connor Powell … Powell and Josiah Wehling are the only two seniors returning (that competed in the 2021 post-season) - so this team should be continue to develop over the year (and for years to come). The return of Zion Rutledge is also a big bonus for the Hawks and Rutledge is part of a Junior class that is deep. State Qualifiers Clark Young and Connor Cooper both return and will look to make a run for a spot on the podium.
Hillgrove also has several sophomores that gained valuable experience as freshmen in 2021 including State Qualifiers Brayden Gibson and Elliot Wehling. If can continue the development of the sophomore and junior talent - this team could make some noise at the end of 2022 and into 2022-23.
“After a down year by Hillgrove standards, we aim to compete for a region title, county title, and a shot at the elite 8. Led by returning state finalist Connor Powell (12), and top 8 finisher Connor Cooper (11), we are returning 9 starters from last years team. The wrestlers bought into the off-season program and are eager to demonstrate their improvement on the mat. ”