The Mount Carmel wrestling team is younger than usual this season, but they have already shown they can compete at a high level.
Although the Caravan graduated important wrestlers last year, the roster still has experienced leaders, along with new wrestlers who are pushing to improve. The schedule includes many strong opponents, and success will depend on the team making progress each day in practice.
The goal for this season is to make a run at a team state championship. Coaches and athletes know that this requires consistent effort, skill development, and teamwork. With wrestlers at several weight classes and younger athletes moving into varsity roles, the Caravan believe they can develop into a championship team by the end of the year.
“We always want to be comfortable wrestling in our positions,” head coach Alex Tsirtis said, who has been MC’s head coach since 2016, explaining the team’s daily practice focus. “If we concentrate on this every day, it gives us a better chance to win the championship at the end of the season.”
Mount Carmel’s roster includes several young wrestlers, but coaches describe the team as hardworking and competitive. Tsirtis called the team “very young,” but also said the wrestlers are committed to improving. Junior Danny Lynch prepared for the season during the offseason by lifting six times a week and wrestling three times per week.
“I was focusing on my setups and hand fighting, and it has come a long way,” Lynch said.
Senior Liam Kelly, a individual state champ at 165 pounds last season, said he feels strong competing this season. “practiced every day and kept learning,” Kelly said. “I am most proud of the technical jumps I have made.”
Sophomore Mason Andrews said he improved his double-leg takedown by attending open mats. He said he also worked on conditioning and now feels more confident than he did last year.
Team chemistry has also been noted as a strength. Andrews said the team “jokes around but also pushes each other to get better.” Lynch explained that Tsirtis prepares effective match strategies and selects competition weights that help the team succeed. Lynch said he hopes to score extra points in close meets. Junior Kenny Seggerson emphasized the importance of mindset.
“Most people think mindset is not a technique, but it is,” Seggerson said. He said he has been working on staying low in his stance and thinking clearly before matches.
Several wrestlers shared the meets they are most excited for. Kelly said he looks forward to facing Crown Point again, calling it a “great duel and really fun.” Kelly also said the Ironman Tournament is the toughest event of the season. Andrews said he is eager for a major mid-season tournament to see how much progress he has made. Seggerson said he feels strong at 190 pounds and is especially motivated for sectionals and the state series.
Tsirtis also pointed out freshman Brody Koselke as someone who could make an immediate impact for the team. As the season begins, the Caravan focuses on improving each day.
What is the head coach most exciting about?
“Seeing the kids get better every day,” Tsirtis said.
