By: Ross Martin
Hallsville wants to prove there is more to the program than just Andrew Huddlestone, who became the school’s first-ever Class 1 Missouri State Wrestling Championships individual champion a year ago. But his importance goes beyond just his contributions on the mat.
“We have a good core group of returning wrestlers who are going to be tough to beat night in and night out along with some fresh faces,” Hallsville coach David Nugent said. “Andrew Huddleston, who has been to the state tournament three times and captured a championship last year, is undoubtedly our team leader — both vocally and through example.”
Huddlestone went from two-time qualifier with no medals to the top of the podium as a junior. He joined Luke West as the only state finalists in Hallsville history and then finished the job with a 4-2 decision over Whitfield’s Wade Raeman in the 138-pound final.