As fall sports come to a close, the Hornets’ winter teams are preparing for the upcoming season, with coaches highlighting new talent, returning leaders, and ambitious goals. From the basketball court to the wrestling mat, teams are preparing for what could be standout seasons. After asking winter coaches some questions, here is what they have had to say.
Boys Basketball – Coach Cory Dunn
Coach Dunn is enthusiastic about the start of the season, noting that the preseason has gone well with strong numbers and high energy. “Our guys are excited, and their effort is where it needs to be,” he said. After two years of building with a young team, Dunn is confident that returning varsity experience will pay off this winter.
Two players to watch include Lane Edmonds, who has made big strides in the offseason, and newcomer Aiden Schaumberg, who Dunn believes will have a major impact. The team’s biggest strengths are depth and scoring ability, but Dunn emphasized that finding toughness and playing with a “chip on the shoulder” will be key. His goals are clear: win the conference and make a deep tournament run.
“I’m excited to watch this group gel on the floor,” Dunn said. “These guts have grown up in the program, and now it’s time to see it unfold on Friday and Saturday nights.”
Girls Wrestling – Coach Stephen Back
Girls’ wrestling is gaining momentum, and Coach Back couldn’t be more ready. The preseason has been busy with fundraising for a new practice mat, but spirits remain high. Last year, freshman Mimi Nicolas carried the program as its only competitor and finished second at state. Back expects her success, leadership, and confidence to inspire more girls to join the team.
“Our biggest strength is our program as a whole,” Back said, pointing to the success of the boys’ team and middle school girls as a sign of what’s to come. His focus is on preparing athletes both mentally and physically, while also making sure they enjoy the journey.
“I’m looking forward to getting matches started and destroying our opponents, physically and mentally,” Back adds.
Boys Wrestling – Coach Thomas Lynch
Coach Lynch describes preseason as “going strong,” with wrestlers training across the country and putting in time at clubs, the weight room, and open mats. With a team full of young talent, Lynch is confident that both team and individual wrestlers are poised for success.
Leaders to watch include Jacob Cole, a standout vocal leader, Jacob and Luke Weaver, and senior returners Donovan Storey and Colten Klecz. Freshman Dallas Rosenbarger, a nationally ranked middle school wrestler, is also entering with big goals.
When asked about his focus, Lynch put it simply: “Get better at wrestling!” His goals are ambitious – win the conference, win team state, and prepare athletes for success on and off the mat. “I couldn’t be prouder of this group,” He said. “I’m especially excited to watch our seniors teach the younger athletes the culture that creates success.”
Girls Basketball – Coach Jennifer Jacoby
Girls’ basketball is also off to a strong start. Coach Jacoby said the preseason has been focused on fundamentals, but the team is coming together with a mix of returners, new transfers, and strong senior leadership.
“This group really gets it,” Jacoby said of her seniors, praising the way they’ve embraced both returners and newcomers. The team’s goals are ambitious– win the conference, win sectionals, and build a program the community can be proud of.
With plenty of scoring potential, the focus will be on tightening up defense. Still, Jacoby said the emphasis is on enjoying the process while working hard. “We had a great summer at camp,” she said. “This is going to be a fun and exciting year to watch these young ladies play.”
Winter sports fans will not have to wait long to see these teams in action. From basketball battles under the lights to intense matchups on the wrestling mat, the season ahead promises excitement, growth, and plenty of moments for the community to rally behind.
The Mental Side of the Game
Beyond physical preparation, mental health is a major focus for Hornet athletes. Coaches and players recognize that success in sports starts with a healthy mindset. Coach Thomas Lynch said his wrestling staff prioritizes mental wellness year-round, teaching athletes to practice gratitude, positive affirmations, and self-belief. Jacob Cole overcomes these struggles by setting goals for himself. Luke Weaver gave advice to get over the mental part of the game: stating you need to “push past those thoughts.” Coach Stephen Back adds that wrestling builds resilience and discipline, helping athletes learn that “mistakes are not failures” and that strength comes from pushing through hard days.
For basketball players, managing pressure and confidence is a daily challenge. Madi Ford admits, “I tend to overthink a lot and freeze because I’m scared I’ll get taken out if I mess up,” while Addi Gorbet shared that stress and self-doubt can limit performance, but maintaining balance and open communication helps her overcome it. Coach Jacoby said her staff tries to remind players of their worth and to always “be there for one another.” On the boys’ side, Coach Dunn said, “Our brotherhood gives us strength through the struggles,” while Lane Edmonds and Aiden Schaumberg agree that overthinking and negative mindsets can affect the entire team.
Many athletes said their mental health journeys have taught them lifelong lessons. Mimi Nicolas shared that while wrestling can be draining, it ultimately makes her stronger, and Dallas Rosenbarger said his faith helps him overcome doubt. From building confidence to finding joy beyond the scoreboard, Hornet athletes are proving that mental toughness is just as vital as physical skill.