Practices will be held for the next two weeks until their first match, on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The Bulldogs also travel to Eden Valley and Willmar for scrimmages. These add a little something different than just practicing with their teammates.
The Bulldogs’ schedule is almost identical to last years’ schedule, with the state tournament on Feb. 27, 28 and March 1.
Last year the Bulldogs ended the year at sixth in state with a 28-5 record.
Paynesville should have a few consistent stoppers, plus pretty good balance throughout the lineup. The Bulldogs' weakness could be at the bottom few weights and at some of the top weights.
All wrestlers who made it to state and return this year are hoping to place better this year. They are Dave Ley, Tim Roberg, Jeremy Reiter, Colby Scheierl, Jesse Spates (fourth in state) and Lee Hiltner (state champion).
Other returning lettermen include Chris Welle, Josh Frenchick, Ryan Stoneburner, Andy Binsfeld, Andy Heinen, Zach Welle, Karl Sanborn and Billy Stanger. The Bulldogs only lost two wrestlers to graduation last year.
The Bulldogs are currently rated, by the Guillotine, number four in the state class AA. The Bulldogs are still in the same class, but there is no longer a class B because the classes were renamed. Now there is class AAA, class AA, and class A.
Paynesville also faces what could be one of the toughest schedules. They face over 20 teams that are rated. Individuals who are rated are: Tim Roberg, number three at 130 pounds; Jeremy Reiter, number three at 125 pounds; and Lee Hiltner number one at heavyweight.
The Bulldogs' first match is a triangular at home on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Other teams that will be there are Melrose and ACGC. The team hopes that many fans will come and watch as they hope to get off to a good start.