The Falcon wrestling squad went 3-0 in their locally hosted meet last Thursday, Dec. 12, besting teams from Alchesay, Canyon State and Imagine Prep.

This was the local squad’s only home meet of the season and the stands were absolutely packed for the big event featuring four teams and a special senior recognition night celebration at the conclusion.

Head coach Luke Salzman said it was a big evening for the Falcons, as they delivered more than a few big performances with the hometown fans watching, going on to best Alchesay 64-18, Canyon State 54-21 and Imagine Prep 78-0.

“This brings our current dual record to 7-1 on the season,” Salzman added.

“I was really happy how the boys wrestled tonight in front of the home crowd.”

Despite pulling off three big wins, Salzman said the Falcons are always on the lookout for areas in need of some extra attention in practice.

“We still have some areas of improvement and have to remind [the guys] that it is still early in the season and we have a lot of matches in the next two months to improve and sharpen our technique,” Salzman said.

“We also have a couple weeks off to get in better shape in order to outlast our opponents.”

The Falcons won’t be back in action until Jan. 3-4, when they take part in the Prescott Valley Tournament. From there, the team’s next two events are both two-day invitationals. After that, it’s a handful of regular matches before heading into the sectional and state tournaments.

In other words, the Falcons have quite a bit of wrestling to do in the coming months, something Salzman said they’ll be ready for in the New Year.

Along with the three wins last week, Salzman said that the Falcons’ only home meet of the season was also special because it served as the team’s senior recognition night.

“We recognized five senior captains; Connor Burke, Sean Loving, Skyler Anselmo, Kawika Reid and Peter Carillo,” Salzman said.

“It’s been fun coaching these guys for the past four years and seeing them evolve into athletes and young men.”

Salzman said he has high expectations for his seniors following graduation, just as he has for them in their final year on the mat as a Falcon.

“Each senior has a plan for the future, from attending West Point to a two-year church mission, to college,” he said.

“These five have also taken a major role in team leadership this year, helping the younger wrestlers out a ton.”