State of the Program ... Uwharrie Charter (NC)
Uwharrie Charter (NC)
Head Coach: Chris Waddell (entering 21st year)
Staff: Eric Soto and David Lackey
Uwharrie Charter brought 14 to the 1A East Region and qualified 12 for the 2021 1A State Tournament. The Eagles put six on the podium including State Runners-up Drew Shelton and Doug Bowles. Unfortunately the Eagles graduate some significant firepower - 3 placer along with 2 other State Qualifiers. The Eagles still return a formidable force with 3 State Placers (Lackey, Bowles, and Roberts) as we as well as 4 other State Qualifiers.
With Avery County and Robbinsville both returning some firepower from last year - it is will key for returning State Qualifiers James Boling, Jaden Marion, Jaden Maness, and Jack McArthur to take that next step make push for a spot on the podium. Keep an eye on Jair Ulloa as well as Ethan Haines who sat behind Heaven Fitch a year ago at 106. The Eagles should be in the mix for another top 3 finish again in 2022 - the question is whether they have the horses to overtake Robbinsville or Avery and bring the title home.
“We finished 3rd last year behind Avery County and Robbinsville HS. We return a lot of talent, but so do they, so I think that we have an opportunity to finish in the top 3 in the state again this season. We have either won or placed 2nd the previous 2 seasons. We won the state tournament in 2018 and 2019, and we placed 2nd in 2020. Last year was our lowest finish, but our state also didn’t have wrestle backs, which is where we have thrived in previous seasons. ”