By Pat Dailey (For OzarkSportsZone.com)
Branson’s jump from Class 3 to Class 4 last winter was highlighted by a 47-win season and return trip to state by Ryzen Isringhausen.
“Both Class 3 and Class 4 have very competitive districts in district 3,” Pirates coach Garrett Hawkins said. “We knew whatever district we were gonna be in would be competitive.”
Isringhausen was 47-3 as a sophomore last season. He fell in the second consolation round at 120 at state, after being a Class 3 state champ at 106 as a freshman.
“I expect Ryzen to approach his junior year focused,” Hawkins said. “Ryzen has been wrestling at a high level for many years. He knows what it takes to succeed and is excited to get started.”
Branson’s returnees also include seniors Carson Ruda at 144 and Adrian Sanchez at 285. They both were one win short at districts of qualifying for state,
“(They) are looking to finish out their high school careers on the medal stand,” Hawkins said.
The Pirates also have experienced varsity performers in Zayden Isringhausen, Isaiah King, Hunter Thiemann, Eligh Little, Camden Uhrhammer and Adrian Sanchez.
Zayden Isringhausen was one win shy at districts of making state as a 120-pound freshman.
“We are looking to cash in the varsity experience from last year,” Hawkins said.
Hawkins added he likes the potential of his underclassmen.
“We have a good group of sophomores and freshmen that most likely will fill roles at the varsity level from time to time,” he said.
On the girls’ side, the Lady Pirates welcome back Alyssa Salemie, after she was a state runner-up at 115 last season. Her freshman year saw her win her first three matches at state, before falling to three-time state champion Jessa Joiner, of Lebanon.
“Alyssa Salemie had an amazing season as a freshman,” Hawkins said. “We look to see her continue to compete at a high level this year and are excited to see chase her goals.”
Branson will also rely on seniors Savannah Cisco, Karen Keener, Priya Raghani and Lucia Rosales for leadership.
“These young ladies will definitely make an impact this year,” Hawkins said. “Our girls program keeps growing and we are starting to get some (Lady Pirates) that have youth and junior high wrestling experience.”
Other returnees for the Lady Pirates are Mandie McLemore, Lilly Moore, Nevah Moten, Andrea Menjivar, Karen Keener, Priya Raghani, Lucia Rosales, Harper Farley, Keziah Moore, Savannah Cisco and Natalie Gaytan.
Gaytan made state last season at 235.
Freshmen girls to watch out for are Emma Contreras, Marlett Rosales and Victoria Rosales.
