The winter season has arrived, and so has the O'Dea Wrestling team. This year, however, is much more different compared to that of the previous years. With some new changes and new staff, this group of students are in for an exciting season.
That's because there's a new coaching staff helping the athletes improve their performance on the mats. After the 2023-2024 season, Coach Joey Balinbin left the role of Head Coach. Stepping in to fill the role is Class of 2018 O'Dea alumni Alan Badley, alongside Markusio Hamaker from the Class of 2017. Both coaches are experienced wrestlers with collegiate experience, and are excited to be here.
"I was raised as part of the team here, and it lead to so many opportunities for me. I love the brotherhood, I love the team, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to coach here," said Coach Badley.
Under their leadership, they plan to focus on teaching and mastering the basics.
"As far as wrestling techniques, we are returning to our fundamentals and becoming experts at them. That's how we'll have an edge over other teams."
On top of that, there is a new pair of captains this year to help lead the team during practice and matches. Seniors Adam Kloeppel and Nat Badley consider this year to be the best year for O'Dea wrestling since Covid and the pandemic. After their recent performances at a tournament in Mariner High School, where Kloeppel placed first in a recent tournament, they have high hopes for this season.
(Kloeppel after winning a match)
In addition, the underclassmen this year have stepped up their game, and have made huge strides in the junior varsity. In their most recent tournament, they had a great showing, with some players going undefeated.
"We have a group of young athletes who are very coachable and are picking up wrestling very fast, and overall they are improving very quickly."
(Bruno Mastin suplexing his opponent)
As a whole, O'Dea wrestling is in for an exciting season. With a talented roster and a new set of coaches, they are ready to take metros by storm.
Photo Credits: Bruno Mastin and Manny Isip.
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