Cubs with solid mix of returners, newcomers

By Jared Lankford Special to the Monett Monthly

The wrestling program at Monet High School has been one of the most successful programs overall for the district.

This year’s team looks to make its mark and add to that legacy.

Monett has set five goals for the team this year are aggressive, but achievable for the Cubs.

They include: Create team leadership; win close matches; win conference; qualify 6 for the state tournament; and multiple state placers.

“I think we are becoming well-rounded,” said Ben Hohensee, Monett coach. “Wrestlers have to be good in all three positions. Our athletes are beginning to find their strengths in those positions. We have to be fearless and look to score points all three periods. Last year, we saw guys starting to buy in. 

“We are a young team. With young teams comes young athlete problems. Our young guys have to believe in their abilities and wrestle consistently week to week. We cannot afford to take steps backward during the season. Being consistent in our training will be a must.”

Depth with be a strength for the Cubs this year.

Dyson Cutbirth is still a young wrestler who has made leaps and bounds the last two seasons, according to Hohensee. He works hard and has the technique to win big matches.

Jaxon Stout as a freshman recorded some big wins during the season. His coach said he is dangerous and never out of a match.

Kade Adams is a returning state qualifier as a freshman last season.

“He put’s in lots of work in the off-season,” Hohensee said. “We look forward to watching him make more strides this season.”

Chris Spears is described as an athletic kid that learned a lot last season. He is quick and strong. When confident, his coaches said that he can compete with anyone.

Henry Reed is one of the team’s leaders.

“He outworks everyone, which is why he was a state qualifier last season,” Hohensee said. “ Henry always looks for a challenge and is fearless. Henry looks to make it on the podium this February.”

Logan Cole is looking to build off of last season.

“Last year was a breakthrough year for him,” Hohensee said. “Watching his improvements throughout the season was nothing short of amazing. He just keeps coming at you and wears on his opponents. This year, he is looking to make a bigger impact with post-season success.”

The Cubs are counting on their experience to carry the way forward.

“Our upperclassmen leadership has high expectations,” Hohensee said. “Two guys we look at to lead this team are Logan and Henry. Both of these guys are workers and will lead by example in practice, at school, and in the community. We expect them to create camaraderie within the team. We expect them to have high expectations of their teammates and our success will depend on their leadership.”

This year, Monett will experience a unique match and an environment that the Cubs love – a home match in front of the high school student body.

“Feb. 4 is our assembly dual against Berryville, Ark,” Hohensee said. “We wrestle in the High School gym at 1 p.m. The entire high school student body will be in attendance. It is a great opportunity for our wrestlers to compete in front of their classmates and families. The energy is amazing.”