By Michael Barton, ’13, Contributor

The 2009-2010 CCDS wrestling team is the epitome of the saying that quality beats quantity. Though the Indians are small in numbers, each member of the team possesses a significant amount of talent, a solid work ethic, and dogged perseverance, leading the team to success.

The team is led by seniors Charlie Bailey and John Robinson and also comprises juniors Basil DeJong and Will Fritz and sophomore Kyle Pruis.  Bailey and Robinson are poised to build upon last year’s success and challenge each individual with the hopes of strengthening the team. With only five wrestlers, all are key to the team’s success. There’s no room for passengers in this organization. Head Coach Dan Wood explained, “With only five wrestlers, all of them are important. So much about wrestling is preparation; each person on the mat translates into another practice opponent and another opportunity for improvement.”

Only a few weeks into the season, the Indians have enjoyed early success. Leading the team with 10 wins, Basil DeJong placed fifth in the Norwood Invitational, pinning three of his opponents. Charlie Bailey and Will Fritz have also had success, each placing sixth in their weight classes at the Reading Invitational. While each wrestler is working to meet his individual goals, the team is striving to get 40 pins, 200 takedowns, and 40 reversals. Though these goals are lofty, Fritz explains that “if every wrestler shows up to practice and can master the moves, we will reach our goal without a problem.”

Overall, the Indians possess the skills necessary for success. As Coach Wood explained, “Wrestling does not require athletes to compete simultaneously in a coordinated effort. So, we are not at any disadvantage by having a small team. Our focus, of course, is guiding each of the five individuals as they work toward accomplishing their goals.”

Photo of Will Fritz taking down a Taylor wrestler by Ilana Habib.