The Elks are known for being a tough team on the mat. Head coach Kaleb Murray returns several guys who are looking to close out their careers by finding a spot on the podium at the Big House.
“We will have two seniors returning that have been starters in our lineup their whole career. We will return two state qualifiers back and add quite a bit of young talent. We will have a competitive, hard-nosed group of kids,” said coach Murray.
Aaron Frye is back and in the hunt for a spot in the state tournament. Frye is one of the leaders of the Elk City team and is respected by his peers.
“Aaron is a true example of a leader in the room. He can always be counted on to give everything he has and will do things right. He has worked hard this off-season to completely change his body and should have a good chance to make a state qualifying push,” said coach Murray.
Braxton Robertson (175) comes into the 2022-23 season ranked No.7 in Class 4A’s 175-pounders. Last season Robertson made it to the state tournament and is hungry for more.
“Braxton is a returning state qualifier at 182-pounds and should be primed for another run at 175. He has an unlimited motor and the technique as well to pose a threat in any match he is in. He is a great “lead by example” guy in our room,” said coach Murray.
Aden Long (285) is another athlete the Elks have hopes for at state this season. Long is the fifth ranked heavyweight in Class 4A. The senior should get another shot at the podium this year.
Freshman Hezekiah Hull has worked his way into the varsity room and the lineup for coach Murray. Hull brings solid technique and comes from a bloodline of great wrestling. Also look for Alonzo Geno this year. Geno has been one of the Elks top wrestlers since he was a freshman. Injuries have slowed him down, but this season Geno is looking to have a breakout year.
DID YOU KNOW
The first state champion at Elk City was Frank Ward Jr. in 1929 who won the title at 105-pounds.
In the 1930’s Elk City crowned three state champions in Cecil Bishop (165) in 1932, Junior Choate (145) in 1937 and Eugene Henslee (105) in 1938.
