The 2011-2012 Patriot Wrestling team is beginning a new season with a fresh start and lots of new talent ready to take the mat. This will be the second season with Coach Matt Lowers and he is ready to move forward for a new season of competition.
"I was extremely pleased with the students-athletes remarkable improvements in both their academics and athletics last season," said Lowers. "We had some great leadership which will propel us into this season."
The Patriots have been training hard in the off-season and with a combination of experienced upperclassman returning and the new highly talented freshman class, the team philosophy is being encouraged more than ever. The idea of being a "Life Leader" is the idea encouraged by the Patriots wrestling team and each member is asked to dedicate themselves to their academics, wrestling, personal and spiritual life by setting an example of what to strive to be.
There were only two seniors lost to graduation from the 2010-2011 squad. Both were key contributors to the Patriots squad, but the team chooses to focus on the positives and look towards the mat. Key returners include two time All-American Larone Madison, National Qualifiers and All Conference Academic team members Derek Murdock and Zack Barkett. The Patriots also return seniors and National Championship hopefuls PJ Martinez and Jered Medina.
The Patriots are a part of the NAIA's very new and competitive Mid-South Conference (MSC). The teams in the Mid-South that Cumberlands will see this season include Campbellsville, Cumberland (TN), Lindsey Wilson, and West Virginia Tech. Although this conference is very competitive Coach Lowers has confidence in his team. "We have changed the schedule significantly and look forward to each new match and tournament we will attend," commented Lowers.
The Patriots are looking towards the upcoming season with optimism and hope to set a positive example for future Patriots while seeking the MSC Championship.
Cumberlands will begin their season as they host their annual Patriot open on November 5th.
