State of the Program ... Gilbert (SC)
Gilbert (SC)
Head Coach: Mitch Hudson (entering Season 5)
Staff: Micheal Kleinfelder, Jack Stephens, Jon Brentlinger, Neil Bastian
Gilbert took 2nd to BHP in both duals and traditional in 2021 and with the team Gilbert has returning - they are ready to take that title in 2022. With 6 State Placers returning - this is a team that will be tough to beat. Elijah Mayers (4th at 106), Blake Wise (3rd at 120), Harley Boatwright (2nd at 145), Jackson Caulder (3rd at 152), and Grayson Keisler (3rd at 182) should lead the way. Each will be looking to claim an individual title as well as leading the team to a dual and traditional title.
But to win a dual state title you need more than 5, 6 or 7 … you need everyone to step up. It will be important for JJ Brentlinger, Grayson Dowden, Brenden Boatwright, and others to make some noise. From top to bottom Gilbert is very tough, but the teams they will go against to win a title (BHP, West-Oak, Powdersville, etc.) are equally talented. This will be a fun year to watch the action in South Carolina 3A. Keep an eye on freshman Nathan Shumpert.
“Gilbert has 12 returning starters to our line up and several wrestlers with varsity experience all returning. We have our most experienced line up returning with 8 State Qualifiers and state 6 placers and the goal is to be in the State Finals, making a 4th attempt to win a State Title. We have experience, we have guys that have put in a lot of work on the mat and in the weight room. We will be challenged by a few teams in the Lower State, and we have to compete with the Upper State but our guys have embraced this challenge for the last three years and ready to take one more shot. We also know we will be facing challenges similar to last season and focusing on ourself is a priority.”