A-3 Independents

WALLACE MINERS

Coach: Bob Schreiber

Years coaching: 15

Top returners: Richard Clark, senior, 125; Derek Connors., sr., 130; Richard White, sr., 135; Dan Tesky, sr., 140; Mike LaBau, sr., 171.

Newcomers: Shawn Leeling, sr., 119; Ty Miller, fr., 125; Chris Wilburn, jr., 152.

Coach’s comment: “With our low numbers, it’s hard to get teams to come in (for duals). Wrestling the Kelloggs and Lakelands and Post Falls, they make our kids better.”

Outlook: The Miners program was on the administration’s chopping block a year ago and must maintain at least 15 team members for school funding. Otherwise, the booster club must supplement the program. Schreiber is working with 19 wrestlers. A year ago, Wallace ended the year with just seven wrestlers. LaBau and Clark should challenge for state titles.

KOOTENAI WARRIORS

Coach: Kevin Kincheloe

Years coaching: 11

Top returners: Mark Stephens, 103, sr.; Ryan Goodson, 171, jr.; Matt Shauerman, 189-hvy., jr.

Newcomers: Paco Dodson, 135-140, so.; Brady Livermore, 125, fr.

Coach’s comment: “Our practices should be more intense this year with more kids out (for the team). We should be able to fill 11 of the 13 weights.”

Outlook: Kincheloe has nearly three times the team he had last year with a turnout of 13 (five last year).

“We’ll actually be able to field a team for dual matches,” he said.

Kincheloe said Stephens has improved markedly over last year.

“Last year he was so strong and quick. This year he is more controlled and has a lot more mat presence.”

Stephens hopes to place in the top three at state, a realistic goal.

, DataTimes MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: Wrestlers to watch Mike LaBau, senior, 171, Wallace, second at state at 160 last year Richard Clark, senior, 125, Wallace, second at state last year Mark Stephens, senior, 103, sixth at state last year