Lenape High School’s wrestling program has always been vital to the school’s athletics but many believe this is the best Lenape wrestling team since 2000. With many talented athletes and dedicated coaches and lots of strong community support Lenape wrestling is experiencing a significant resurgence.
A Legendary Athlete: Dave Miller
One of Lenape’s most notable wrestlers is Dave Miller, who graduated in 2001. He was a four-time state medalist, finishing among the top ranks at the state championships each year of high school. “My main motivation as a kid was that I believed I could attain the same level of success as my father, if not more, throughout my wrestling career. I made sure to put in extra work to help me achieve my goals,” (Dave Miller). Mr. Miller’s dedication and hard work set a high bar for future wrestlers. His achievements brought pride to Lenape and inspired younger athletes to work hard and aim high. “Do more than what is required of you. If you show up each day and work hard in the room during practice, you will have success. If you want to succeed beyond that, then you will make or find time to do extra,” (Dave Miller).
“Dave Miller used to be a coach of mine and seeing his name on that wall motivates me to want to get my name up there and get my name in the history books,” stated Owen Boyle, a current Lenape wrestler
Rising Stars
In 2024, Lenape’s wrestling program reached an important milestone and Coach Easlick believes this success comes from more people appreciating the sport. “Kids are starting to buy in. In the past, they didn’t want to commit. They preferred to wrestle for just three months instead of all year. Now, they’re going to clubs in the summer and lift weights,” said Coach Easlick. Athlete Jackson Wheeler shared his goals for the season: “My goal is to become a district champion and place in regionals. I’ve been working hard every day to reach that goal.” Rising star Owen Boyle is also ready to make an impact, “I want to achieve high goals; I have high expectations for myself. I love this sport, so I want to excel at what I love,” he stated. The athletes share a philosophy of hard work and resilience, creating a supportive atmosphere where they encourage each other to improve. “Everyone deserves the same attention. If someone is willing to work hard, we will give them every chance to succeed,” emphasized Coach Easlick. With dedicated coaching and commitment, Lenape Wrestling is set for a bright and promising future.
A Culture of Hard Work
The Lenape wrestling team is known for its strong work ethic and commitment to improving. Each day, the athletes push themselves in practice to sharpen their skills and build strength. They understand that success on the mat requires hard work off the mat, like keeping good grades and eating healthily. These athletes are devoted to putting in the effort necessary to achieve their goals. This focus on hard work creates an environment where wrestlers motivate and hold each other accountable. As Owen Boyle noted, “In the wrestling room, we always push each other to do better. If you’re slacking off in practice or in the fitness room, we’re going to call you out.” Coaches highlight that this kind of dedication is what makes the team stand out. Coach McLaughlin added, “We always make sure the wrestlers know that whatever effort you put in off the mat will pay off on the mat. It might not show right away, but eventually, you’ll start to see the results.” Through their hard work, the wrestlers are preparing for a successful season and a bright future.
A Bright Future Ahead
Lenape wrestling is progressing strongly, thanks to its skilled athletes, supportive community, and dedicated coaches. With stars like Jackson Wheeler and Owen Boyle, the team honors legends such as Dave Miller while creating its own path to success. The commitment to hard work and teamwork among the wrestlers is essential for their progress. As they look forward, the achievements of the past inspire the new generation to set high goals and compete passionately. As Coach Dave Miller wisely said “Putting in extra work will help you believe in your abilities and give you belief that you have done enough. One key thing I tried to keep in mind in my competitive career was to try to fall in love with the process of becoming great. This helped me think that doing extra work was all just a part of the process. It wasn’t something I had to do, it was something I chose to do.”