Greybull-Riverside Middle School wrestling takes to the mat

The Greybull-Riverside middle school wrestling team is heading into the season with its largest turnout in years – with a mix of experienced competitors and newcomers.

Head coach Tim Eardley said the team has 28 wrestlers: 20 boys and eight girls. He is joined by returning coaches Nate Hetzel, Tom Harrington and Ira Mickelson. 

“We have a fantastic bunch of coaches, they are positive and encouraging, I’m excited to work with them again this year,” said Eardley. 

In his second year back after a coaching break, Eardley said the first week of practice went well.

“The kids worked really hard, stayed focused, learned a lot and we had some fun,” he said.

Eardley is optimistic about the group, which includes returning conference placers as well as first-time wrestlers. He said some experienced athletes will be working toward conference championships, while newer wrestlers may set goals like earning their first takedown.

Basin eighth-grader Sawyer Triplett is a returning champion, having placed first in the 138-pound B division at conference last year. 

Other wrestlers to keep an eye on this season who placed in the top four at conference in their divisions include for the girls: Tatum Triplett, Ryan Whisenant and Delta Craft. For the boys: Ashtun Winkler, Jayden Waddell and Haakon Craft.

“We’re here to help each and every wrestler that’s there, no matter what their goals are,” Eardley said.

With Basin’s school district recently pivoting to a four-day school week, this has slightly impacted practice start times due to their school day extending until 4 p.m. The team practices in Greybull and Basin’s seven wrestlers as bused over. 

Middle school tournaments utilize weight classes and divide wrestlers into A and B divisions, though formats can vary by tournament. Girls have a single division. 

The coach emphasized a healthy approach to weight management. He discourages wrestlers from skipping meals (to cut weight) and encourages them to make balanced food choices instead. “Get rid of your chips, pop, or energy drink at lunch,” he said, “Do not cut a meal, but I encourage you to cut the crap.”

The Hounddogs open their season this Saturday at the Cody Middle School Invitational. Beginning at 10 a.m., they will face off against nine teams including Lander and Riverton. “It’s a chance to jump into the season to see how we’re stacking up and see what we need to work on,” said Eardley.  

G-R has three home meets including a triangular in Basin on Nov. 3, a triangular in Greybull on Nov. 19, and another matchup in Greybull on Nov. 21.

At the middle school level, wrestling lasts eight weeks culminating with the Big Horn Basin Middle School Conference on Saturday, Dec. 5 in Thermopolis. 

Fans are encouraged to check either the Greybull or Basin school district’s athletic calendars for up-to-date schedules. Coaches note that matches are occasionally changed or times adjusted.

Eardley said the season is a chance for wrestlers to learn, see what is working, and keep improving, “I’m just super excited, and it’s fun to see so many kids out and see everybody working hard and learning. We look forward to a great year.”