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New Lothrop Wrestling Team Achieves Record-Breaking Performance

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. g-team-achieves-record-breaking-performance.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 9:02 GMT by MLive
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

By Joe Frey - MLive.com

Morley - The New Lothrop wrestling team's dominant performance at the Morley Hanover Holiday Classic this past weekend wasn't just a flash in the pan; it's a powerful indicator of a program undergoing a significant and positive transformation. The team's record-breaking point total, the highest in school history, signals a resurgence fueled by a renewed coaching philosophy and a dedicated group of athletes.

Head coach Jake Flinn, entering his third season at the helm, has implemented a strategy prioritizing individualized athlete development alongside fostering a fiercely competitive internal environment. This isn't simply about winning, but about building well-rounded wrestlers capable of consistent improvement and peak performance. This approach differs markedly from previous seasons which, while respectable, lacked the consistent firepower demonstrated in Morley.

"We've really been focusing on individual development and creating a competitive environment," Flinn explained. This "competitive environment" isn't just about internal sparring matches, but also about pushing athletes to consistently challenge themselves during practice, demanding more from each session, and holding each other accountable.

The Holiday Classic results, while impressive, only tell part of the story. Junior Kaden Swartz's first-place finish at 106 pounds exemplifies the program's success in nurturing young talent. Swartz, now a clear leader in his weight class, has shown consistent growth since joining the team. Similarly, senior Nathan Karch's victory at 175 pounds provides a valuable leadership presence, offering a strong example for younger wrestlers. Karch's experience is invaluable, both on the mat and as a mentor.

Owen Saenko's second-place finish in the 152-pound weight class further demonstrates the team's depth. Securing a podium finish in a competitive bracket shows Saenko's rising skill and potential. The third-place finish by Ethan Chandler at 285 pounds showcases strength in the heavier weight classes, providing a balanced roster. Previously, New Lothrop sometimes struggled to fill the heavier weight classes with consistently competitive wrestlers.

However, the team's success isn't solely built on individual accolades. The overall team score - the highest ever recorded - speaks volumes about the collective effort and dedication of every athlete. It's a testament to the depth of the squad and the ability of wrestlers to contribute points even when not securing top individual placements.

Looking ahead, the Morley Hanover Holiday Classic is proving to be more than just a seasonal tournament for New Lothrop. It is a crucial stepping stone towards broader goals. Flinn envisions the team contending for district and regional championships, and ultimately, a state title. While ambitious, the current trajectory suggests these goals are within reach.

The team is focusing on strengthening its conditioning program over the next few weeks. This includes an increased emphasis on agility drills, endurance training, and injury prevention. Flinn has also brought in a sports nutritionist to work with the team on optimizing their diets for peak performance.

Community support has also played a role in the program's success. Increased attendance at matches and fundraising efforts have provided the team with the resources needed to travel to larger tournaments and invest in new equipment. The New Lothrop wrestling boosters are actively working to expand the program's reach and cultivate a stronger sense of community around the sport.

"It's exciting to see the progress these kids have made," Flinn said, and the excitement is clearly shared by the New Lothrop community. The program isn't just winning matches; it's building a culture of dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship - a foundation for continued success for years to come.