By Jayson Henderson
Clay Center Community High School wrestling coach Brandon Pigorsch is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season. With strong boys’ and girls’ teams, Pigorsch shared his expectations, standout athletes, and challenges during a preseason interview.
“We have two pretty strong teams,” Pigorsch said. “If we can stay healthy, both boys and girls can finish I think as high as top ten teams in the state.” *[00:01:19]* Pigorsch added, “The boys can probably be a top five or six team, and the girls probably have the potential to bring down the state trophy.”
This season marks a significant milestone for the girls’ team as they will compete exclusively in Class 4A.
“It’ll be the first time that the girls are actually in just a Class 4A themselves. Last year, that’s 4A through 1A combined,” Pigorsch explained.
Spotlight on Gabi Koppes
A key athlete to watch is senior Gabi Koppes, a three-time state champion with a perfect 98-0 high school record.
“Potentially looking at being one of three wrestlers all-time to be a four-time undefeated state wrestling champ in Kansas. And that’s boys and girls as well,” said Pigorsch.
He emphasized the importance of enjoying her final season, saying,
“For her senior season, I just want her to have as much fun as she can in her senior season. Don’t put too much pressure on herself and just go out there and perform like she can.”
Returning Wrestlers to Watch
On the boys’ side, several returning state placers are expected to make an impact.
“Hayden Kalivoda, as a senior, he’s a three-time state qualifier and finished fourth last year at 120 pounds,” Pigorsch said.
“Ethan Tiers is a senior, and he’s a two-time state qualifier and finished sixth place last year at 215 pounds.”
Additionally, “Thayne Pfizenmaier, who was sixth last year as a freshman at 106 pounds back, and then Blaize Charbonneau was a state qualifier last year as a sophomore at 113 pounds back,” will also bolster the team.
Key Challenges
Pigorsch identified injuries and a tough schedule as the main hurdles.
“Staying healthy is going to be a big factor,” he said.
As for competition, he remarked, “I don’t patty-cake the schedule, so to speak. We go out and we try to see some of the best competition that we can.”
Last Season’s Success
Reflecting on last season’s results, Pigorsch shared,
“The girls finished 11th last year at state and were fifth at regionals, and the boys were third at regionals and fourth at state.”
With seasoned wrestlers and a strong roster, both Clay Center teams are poised to compete at a high level this year.
“We’ve got two really good squads with some good experience and then some talented newcomers,” Pigorsch concluded.
