Lakeland Wrestlers Ready for February

The following was submitted to White Lake Patch by Lori Sokoll.

In the world of high school wrestling, the month of February brings a renewed focus. Coaches reign with greater intensity in their rooms and practices are almost unbearable; the road to the state tournament is what it's all about.

Thanks to head coach Matt Bishop and his desire to build a respected program, the wrestlers have seen stiff competition this season. While for some it has been a year for development and growth, others have risen to the challenge and have emerged ready to take on whatever and whoever stands in their way.

Senior captain Brandon Calma, 112 pounds, enters the month with 22 wins and 5 losses, including placing 6th at the notoriously tough Oakland County Tournament and going 4-0 at the Lowell Invitational.

Senior captain Kyle Babin has been preparing for this since he was a young club wrestler. Babin placed 4th at the Oakland County Tournament at 125 lbs. and is currently 16-7.

Another to watch out for is Junior captain Chase Kelley who placed 8th at Oakland County and currently has a record of 15-9.

This week the KLAA Tournaments get under way as Lakeland hosts the team competition Feb. 1 and individual competition will take place on Saturday, Feb. 4. Individual Districts will take place on Feb. 11 followed by regionals on Feb. 18, and finally the state tournament for individuals begins March 1.