WRESTLING

NORTHFIELD, Vt. - Under the direction of head coach Rich Hasenfus, the Norwich wrestling team is poised for a breakout season this winter. With a handful of key returnees combined with a host of talented freshman, the Cadets are on the cusp of great things in 2007-08.

Key returning wrestlers, who made a big impact last year, include Brian Zane, Chris Barker, Alex Whitney and Steve Celino.

Zane, who was ranked as high as No. 6 nationally and qualified for NCAAs at 133 pounds in 2005-06, returns to the fold this season after suffering an injury and sitting out last year.

"Brian has the potential to be an All-American this season," says Hasenfus. "The sky is the limit for him as long as he stays healthy."

Another grappler who should develop into a force this season is Barker, who will step into the starter's role at 157 pounds

Whitney (184 pounds) and Celino (174 pounds) are penciled in as starters in their respective weight classes as well.

In addition to the returning veterans, whom should all provide leadership and experience out on the mat, Hasenfus envisions starting between three and four freshmen when the season opens in early November. First-year wrestlers who figure to make an immediate impact this year include Matt Gauthier and Alant Francois.

"The key to our success this year will be determined by how well our young guys mature and develop as wrestlers throughout the season," says Hasenfus. "Staying healthy all year long is another key to having a successful season."

One of the highlights of the Cadets' schedule is the Military Championships, which will be hosted by the United States Military Academy at West Point this winter.

"The Military Championships is always the guys' favorite tournament to attend," says Hasenfus. "It is always a great experience for our wrestlers to travel to and compete at a different military institution each year."