Host of Bulldogs shooting for state title
SANDPOINT — Some leaders do so strictly be example, letting their actions do the talking.
Other leaders are vocal, using the power of words to motivate and inspire.
Leonard Fister, the senior captain of the Sandpoint wrestling team, employs a little bit of both, which should bode well for the Bulldogs this season.
“He’s a great leader. We’ve been blessed with a multitude of great leaders here, and he’s prototypical,” says Sandpoint head coach Mike Randles of Fister. “He leads by example, but also by words, and can be outspoken when things need to be done. He’s the ultimate gentleman and a very genuine person.”
Fister finished fourth at state last year at 152 pounds, and will bump up to the 160 pound class for his senior season. He likes the work his team put in during the off-season, and believes it will pay dividends when they take the mat. His goal for the season is to win his first state title, and he’s fully aware of what that entails.
“Push myself up here (practice room), work hard and never give up,” he explains, noting he learned a couple of valuable lessons at state last year. “Never underestimate anyone and always give 110 percent.”
The Bulldogs’ top returning wrestler might be junior Garret Belgarde, who cruised to a state title last year at 103 pounds. Randles believes he has the innate aggressiveness and wrestling background for a repeat performance, but acknowledges the road will be tougher as Belgarde moves up into the 112 pound division this year.
Junior Kyle Csizmar returns with state experience at 119 pounds, where he was one match away from placing at state last year. The lithe and lanky Csizmar is a difficult matchup for his shorter opponents, and brings a solid work ethic to the mat.
“He’s willing to pay his dues,” says Randles, noting he’s often the first guy at practice. “He understands the price to pay to become an excellent wrestler.”
A host of other wrestlers will be vying for state berths this season, including 152 pound senior Dylan Quigley, the fourth and final Bulldog returning with state experience. Senior Dave Marienau (145 pounds) turned out for his senior season after a two-year layoff, and Randles believes by season’s end he’ll have people’s attention.
Newcomer Peyton Dylan, a sophomore, could also be a pleasant surprise for the Bulldogs at 103 pounds. He was a state qualifier in Washington last year, has a great work ethic, and Randles believes he’ll make an impact at the state level this year.
The Bulldogs are a little thin in the upper weight classes, and may have some forfeits early in the season. Randles sees a lot of parody in the 4A North ranks, and believes his team can win a district title and get four or five kids on the podium at state by employing the tried and true Bulldog brand of wrestling.
“Our technique is relatively uniform,” he explains. “Constantly attack and put points on the board by being offensive.”
The Bulldogs kick the season off tonight at the St. Maries Invitational.