The Odessa High School wrestling team enters the 2025 season with momentum, confidence, and lofty expectations.
Under the guidance of head coach Jeff Brown and assistant coaches Tyler Thompson and Dan Schrieman, the Bulldogs are preparing for another grueling campaign as they set their sights on achieving a third consecutive state championship.
For a program built on tradition, toughness, and pride, the chance at a three-peat is both a challenge and a motivating force.
The Bulldogs’ success stems from the program’s culture and preparation. Coach Brown and his staff emphasize discipline, conditioning, and mental toughness, ensuring their wrestlers are ready for the physical and emotional demands of the sport.
Practices are designed not just to refine technique, but also to foster resilience and unity. That formula has been translated into back-to-back state titles and has positioned Odessa as a perennial contender.
The road to another team state title will not be an easy one though. The Bulldogs face a challenging schedule filled with tough conference matchups, invitationals, and tournaments which will test their mettle.
Each competition provides an opportunity for growth, with the ultimate goal of peaking in February when championships are on the line.
This year’s roster is anchored by one of the most decorated junior classes in Missouri and led by two-time state champions Jet Brown and Blaine Wallace, who are both seeking to capture their third titles.
Fellow junior Kamden Hooper, a returning state finalist, is hungry to reach the top of the podium again as he did during his freshman campaign, while Lake Waters makes his much-anticipated return after a season-ending injury that cost him his sophomore season.
Adding to the Bulldogs’ championship potential are juniors Michael Scott, Liam Shippy, and sophomore, Will Scott, all of whom have valuable state tournament experience.
Michael Scott, a two-time state placer, has his eyes on reaching the finals this season, while Shippy and Will Scott are determined to return to Columbia and add to Odessa’s team title aspirations.
Together, this group provides both firepower and depth, ensuring Odessa will once again be in the mix for top honors.
