A new year brings opportunities of a fresh start for the St. Edmond wrestling squad.

Jim Allison's Gaels (3-6 overall) return from their Christmas break tonight when they hit the road to meet North Central Conference foe Clarion-Goldfield. SEHS will then travel to Hampton-Dumont on Thursday for a league triangular with the host Bulldogs and Humboldt.

This evening's varsity matches begin at 6:30 p.m., while Thursday's action is set for 6 p.m.

"I don't really know a much about (Clarion-Goldfield), but I'm expecting our kids to come out and wrestle to the best of their ability," Allison said. "We're only giving up two weights now, which should help our chances of being much more competitive."

In their last outing back on Dec. 19, the Gaels settled for fifth place at the Carroll Invitational. Fifth-ranked (Class 1A) senior Lance Maguire (103), freshman Teddie Harvey (135) and No. 7 senior Mason Waddell (140) all captured individual gold for the green and white with perfect 3-0 marks on the afternoon.

Maguire (15-0), Harvey (13-2) and Waddell (14-1) anchor St. Edmond on the mat.

"All those guys have been wrestling extremely well," said Allison. "We need them to keep stepping up the rest of the way."

Sophomore Patrick Oberg (119), junior Dylan Feldmann (125), freshman Eddie Harvey (130), sophomores Patrick Crimmins (145), Joe Winge (152), junior David Lindner (160), freshman Dillon Nelson (171), sophomore Ryan Rodenborn (189) and junior Ben Kraayenbrink (215) round out the Gael lineup.

Weights 112 and 285 will be open.

"Our guys have been practicing very hard and are determined to achieve success," Allison said. "We just want to make gradual progress each time out, and the wins will eventually come as a result."

Eighth-rated (1A) sophomore Aaron Anderson (103) and No. 3 senior Eric Meyer (171) spearhead Clarion-Goldfield.

Hampton-Dumont's paced by junior Alex Brown (No. 6 at 112) and senior Patrick Hansen (No. 8 at 215). Humboldt's lone ranked grappler is junior Tre' Rutz (No. 5 at 125).

Contact Josh Meyer at (515) 573-2141, or by e-mail at sports@messengernews.net