The senior heavy West Platte boys’ wrestling team is looking to build off a historic 2021 campaign, while Kristen Crockett is looking to hold down the fort as the only Lady Blue Jay wrestler for the second straight season.
Tristan Newkirk is one of four senior Blue Jay wrestlers looking to make a state trip this season.
The Blue Jays are bringing back two-time state qualifier Peyson Chandler, along with returning Class 1 State Medalists Lane Scott and David Brown. All three are seniors, while Scott and Brown each ended in sixth place in their respective weight classes – 195 and 182 – at state.
“The boys finished with a school record three state medalists and an 18th place finish at state last season,” West Platte head coach Brett Swope said. “The boys’ wrestling program finished with a 13-7 dual record, while the Lady Jays finished with momentum.”
The Lady Jays are led by Crockett, who missed out on state last year but earned several All-American finishes during the offseason. The 135-pound Lady Blue Jay had an 18-12 record last winter.
Joining the three Blue Jay state qualifiers are fellow seniors McKanan Reade, Tristan Newkirk and Xavier Williams. Last winter, Reade posted a 21-10 record, Newkirk was 17-13 and Williams ended with 16 wins and 23 losses.
“This year’s team has set a standard for success that has built a foundation for our wrestling programs. Our community is very supportive with our rapidly growing West Platte youth wrestling club,” Swope said.
Sophomore Matthew Haynes and junior Ryan Handgen will also bring back varsity experience.
Junior Colton Connor DePetre will be joined by the freshmen duo of Jhett Chandler and Aiden Hamilton who will look to add depth to the Blue Jays who are looking to compete in the KCI Conference and Class 1.
“I’m very excited about our upcoming season, we have a great group of returning letter winners and a huge senior class of leaders. We have several wrestlers looking to stand on the podium at the MSHSAA State Championships,” Swope said.