The Excelsior Springs High School boys wrestling team, led by Coach Cody Beck, secured district wins, leading to six students qualifying for the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Class 2 District 4 State Tournament. The team placed seventh overall.
Beck explained that the team had a commendable season, finishing with a 4-4 dual record and achieving a significant milestone by securing a first-place win at the Lee’s Summit Christmas Tournament on December 26. Reflecting on this victory, Beck said, “It set a positive tone for the team,” as they navigated a season filled with both challenges and triumphs.
During the MSHSAA State Tournament in February, the boys’ team had a strong showing, with five wrestlers advancing at districts to compete. These included Carson Van Doremalen, who competed in the 132-pound weight division with an 0-2 record; Logan Bates, who competed in the 113-pound weight division and placed fifth at state; Cooper Collins, who competed in the 138-pound weight division and placed fourth at state; Ryne Marcum, who competed in the 144-pound weight division and placed third at state; and Justin Wright, who competed in the 285-pound weight division and also placed third at state. These accomplishments contributed to the team tying for seventh place overall.
Additionally, the season marked significant milestones for two student-athletes. Both Cooper Collins and Ryen Marcum reached their 100-career win milestones. Beck added that Justin Wright is also nearing his 100-career win milestone and has showcased consistent performance on the mat this season.
Coach Beck noted that the team’s emphasis on re-shots and counter-shots proved effective, combined with the students’ support for one another and their determination.
As for challenges, Beck mentioned that the season started strong with 35 athletes on the team, but as the season progressed, numbers dropped to 25 due to injuries and other factors. Despite this, the boys’ wrestling team remained focused and, with Beck’s support, secured placements at state.
Looking ahead to next year, Beck remains optimistic about the ESHS boys wrestling team. He emphasized that young athletes will continue to grow alongside future team members, with a focus on increasing the team’s size, improving strength and skill, and prioritizing proper nutrition with guidance from certified nutritionist Stephanie Marcum.
Beck noted that wrestling is an individual sport, and when it comes to athlete health and fitness, “We didn’t cut weight this year,” he said. “As coaches, we talk to them about nutrition and how to maintain their weight, doing everything possible to help our students.” He added, “Stephanie comes in as a certified nutritionist and talks with the students, teaching them about good protein versus bad and what athletes should put in their bodies.”
Looking ahead, Beck said the team will continue working toward the same goals next year. “Not every program has the ability to bring in a nutritionist to have conversations with their athletes,” he noted, adding that this resource allows students to enjoy wrestling as a sport while also achieving individual and team success.
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