5 returning wrestlers bring state tournament experience

By Jared Lankford [email protected]

The Monett Cubs wrestling program enters the 2026-2027 season with a solid foundation of returning talent, experienced leadership and a commitment to continued improvement.

Head coach Ben Hohensee welcomes back five wrestlers with state tournament experience, including one returning state medalist, as the Cubs look to build on last season’s accomplishments.

However, for Hohensee, success this season will be measured by more than wins and losses.

“Our main goal this season is to focus on the process,” he said. “We want our wrestlers to compete freely, confidently, and with a clear mind. We believe the wins will take care of themselves if we remain committed to doing things the right way.”

Leading the returning group is Kade Adams (132 pounds), the Cubs’ lone returning state medalist. Adams finished fifth at last year’s state tournament and is expected to be a major contributor again this season.

Hohensee praised Adams’ passion for the sport and his constant desire to improve his offensive abilities.

“Kade sets high expectations for himself, and we look forward to seeing him build on last season’s success,” Hohensee said.

Senior Henry Reed (190 pounds) returns as a team captain and state qualifier. Reed brings leadership and a relentless work ethic to the wrestling room as he looks to conclude his high school career with a state medal.

Two other seniors, Dyson Cutbirth (120 pounds) and Chris Spears (144 pounds), also return with state tournament experience.

Cutbirth has dedicated his offseason to improving his technique and becoming a more dangerous offensive wrestler. Hohensee believes Cutbirth has the ability to finish his senior campaign on the state podium.

Spears, meanwhile, has demonstrated significant growth throughout his high school career. Hohensee considers him one of the program’s most improved wrestlers over the last three seasons and believes his athleticism gives him the potential to make a strong postseason run.

Sophomore Jacob Shaw (113 pounds) rounds out the returning state qualifiers. After an impressive freshman campaign, Shaw has focused on developing more offense to complement his defensive abilities.

A gritty competitor who is difficult to score against, Shaw is another Cub with aspirations of reaching the state podium.

While the five returning state tournament competitors provide a strong nucleus, Hohensee believes other wrestlers have the potential to enjoy breakout seasons.

Several Cubs narrowly missed qualifying for state last season, and the coaching staff is optimistic about the team’s developing depth.

A promising freshman class could also contribute as the season progresses.

Several newcomers enjoyed success at the youth wrestling level, and Hohensee hopes that experience will translate into contributions at the high school level.

Leadership will be another important ingredient for Monett’s success.

Reed, Cutbirth and Spears are expected to set the tone for the program, not only through their performances on the mat but also through their conduct in the classroom and community.

Hohensee expects his seniors to demonstrate loyalty, responsibility and accountability while holding their teammates to high standards.

On the mat, the Cubs will emphasize improving their ability to create scoring opportunities and maintaining an aggressive approach throughout each match.

“Regardless of the score or the situation, we want our wrestlers to keep pushing the pace, recognize opportunities, and capitalize on them,” Hohensee said. “We want to be an aggressive team that competes from the opening whistle to the final whistle and never stops looking for ways to score.”

Monett will face a challenging schedule against quality competition throughout southwest Missouri.

Hohensee believes the area’s strong wrestling tradition will provide the Cubs with valuable experience and prepare them for the postseason.

One date the coach hopes the community will circle on its calendar is December 8, when Monett hosts an Assembly Dual against Reeds Spring and Hillcrest at 1 p.m.

The event offers an opportunity for students, families and community members to support the program and experience the excitement of high school wrestling.

Beyond the returning talent and postseason aspirations, Hohensee believes one of the program’s most distinctive characteristics is the number of first-generation wrestlers involved.

Many Cubs come from families without previous wrestling experience, creating an opportunity to establish new traditions and develop a lasting appreciation for the sport.

The enthusiasm of those wrestlers and their families has helped shape a culture built around trust, accountability, relationships and personal growth.

For Hohensee, developing that culture is every bit as important as developing successful wrestlers.

“We are excited about the direction of our program and the culture we continue to build,” Hohensee said. “Our focus is on getting better every day, holding each other accountable, and trusting the process.”

With an experienced group of returning wrestlers, promising newcomers and a commitment to improvement, the Cubs are hoping that process will translate into another successful season on the mat.