SPORTS WRAP
New leader of the pride
Medford wrestling has a new head coach. Trevor Erler steps into a program that is two years removed from a consolation championship at state. The Tigers had five individuals at state last winter.
Dennis Whitman retired after 30 years and 301 wins, and Erler hopes to fill those shoes. “He’s been a great mentor for me in this position. I’ve asked him a lot of questions. What’s really nice about him is he’s answered most of them. He’s willing to help,” said Erler.
Erler (’05 OHS) has stayed close to the sport over the years. “I get to get back in the room, and show everyone my technique, my knowledge… I grew up wrestling. It’s what I’ve known forever,” he said.
While living in Utah for a few years, “I was still looking at The Guillotine, following along with Minnesota high school wrestling. So, it’s the passion that really kept it in me. And then ultimately when this opportunity opened, I applied for it and was able to get it.”
Senior Mason Degrood says the feeling in the room is exciting. “I think I’d be ready for the whole season just off this first week. Just because of how hard [Erler] is pushing us and how hard he wants us to push each other too. Dedication from the whole team. Commitment. And putting everything you got out there on the mat and leaving it there,” said Degrood.
Senior Kaden Harfmann says new varsity wrestlers shouldn’t be afraid of the pressure. “Nerves are something I’ve grown to love actually. If you’re not nervous, you’re not ready, you’re not in the zone enough… I want to tell them that it’s normal,” said Harfmann.
With just two seniors on the roster, Erler will strive to develop the youth, which he saw while competing for OHS coach Scot Davis. “Developing the youth wrestlers not only prepared them for high school competition, it simultaneously created continuity throughout the program, turning out some of the best wrestlers in the state year after year. I got into coaching to help give back to the sport that has taught me so much,” said Erler.
Turkey trot
The 16th annual Infants Remembered in Silence (IRIS) Turkey Trot occurred in chilly conditions Thursday in Faribault. Hundreds ran or walked 5K or 10K to benefit the organization that serves families in a time of need.
IRIS volunteer Stacy Chmelik said, “It is our biggest fundraiser of the year. It brings in a good amount to help many families in the surrounding counties… But then we also have our website that has numerous resources, and they can call the IRIS office and get a bereavement packet” for those outside the regular service area.
Many families do the trot as a holiday tradition, bringing together serious and casual runners from far and wide. IRIS has been supporting families for over 35 years.