Despite an early-season injury to a leading wrestler, the Redwood boys’ wrestling team has had strong pre-season tournament results, and is looking expectantly towards a chance to become Redwood’s first wrestling MCAL championship team in half a century.

Senior Nathan Morris, the defending MCAL champion in the 170-lbs division, has been struggling with an injury early this season, but thanks to a strong core of returning players, Redwood’s team is optimistic.

However, Berreman emphasized that since the regular season has yet to start, the next few weeks could easily define the team’s season.

“Right now we’re at a turning point; if everyone comes together and puts in the work, we could easily win [MCALs],” Berreman said. “But we still need people to keep stepping up.”

The last decade has been dominated by northern Marin schools, but thanks to a large number of competitive wrestlers, Redwood hopes to end a 41-year school championship drought.

“When seniors leave, often you lose weight classes and you’re left with empty spaces in your lineup,” Berreman said. “Redwood hasn’t won MCALs since 1973, but we have the fullest lineup we’ve had in a long time. As long as everyone puts in the work, we’re looking pretty good.”

Berreman, who finished second in his class at MCALs last year, has started this year in dominant form. He recently finished third at both the California Coast Classic Tournament in Aptos and at the Crossface Classic in Vallejo. His 13-3 record has helped the team bridge the gap before Morris returns to top form.

Winning in wrestling doesn’t hinge on just a few athletes, and thanks to strong performances from returning wrestlers Finci, Ricky Couto, and Eli Kahn, depth doesn’t seem to be a problem.

Redwood began their MCAL season last Thursday, where they placed first in their tournament against San Marin and Drake.

Their next MCAL match is this coming Wednesday against Justin-Siena.