by Nicholas Casarez| Staff Writer
Johnson wrestling has been an absolute force ever since the program began. With constant success in tournaments and within district play they’ve established themselves as a powerhouse not only in San Antonio, but statewide across Texas as well. The Jags have continued that success this year, and are fresh off of a solid eighth place finish at the Centex Wrestling Tournament, an event that brought in 40 of the finest wrestling programs in the state. The team was even able to boast two wrestlers that won their weight class. Marvin Smith won the 220lb class while
Nathan Steinle dominated the 160lb class. These individual performances along with the performance of the team as a whole catapulted the Jags into the top 10 and set the bar high as far as the post season is concerned.
“I’m proud of how I did in the tournament. I want to keep doing this well and help the team,” senior Marvin Smith said.
He outperformed the competition in his weight class, but that’s nothing new for Smith, he’s been doing it for awhile now using his huge bulk and strength to overpower opponents, as do the other team members.
“We did good but he have to keep our focus and get ready for whoever’s next on the schedule,” senior Ryan Noland said.
After beating a stout Roosevelt team, which is one of the best in South Texas, next on the schedule is the Reagan Rattler Tournament. It will be another tough test for the Jaguars, but they’ve proven they know how to win. In fact, they haven’t lost a wrestling duel in two years.
“We’ve had a lot of success, I’m proud to be a part of this team. These guys are my boys,” Smith said.
The team looks to have even more success this season as they hope to go far into the playoffs. Many of our wrestlers have thoughts of State on their mind.
“We’re gonna keep working hard and try to make ourselves as good as we can be,” Noland said.
