For Eisenhower head wrestling coach Jared Lindell, he will start the season with the ability to field a full lineup, something he hasn’t had for a while.

The Knights were 3-14 last year in dual meets. Three wrestlers qualified for districts and one moved on to regionals. Gone from last year’s team are Griffin Williams and Ryan Chambers.

Adding wrestlers from Youngsville has made for competitive practices which has brought renewed enthusiasm to their practices.

“The kids have been great,” Lindell said. “I’ve (seen) a lot of enthusiasm for the start of the season. These young guys are so pumped, it just makes for a great atmosphere.”

Top returners for the Knights are Bryceton Wilkins at 189 pounds and Shawn Miller at 127 pounds

Eisenhower will have new faces in its lineup and they have caught Lindell’s eye.

“I’ve been impressed with Collin Havers, Jacob Battko and Lane Morrison,” Lindell said. “I think Collin Havers is a guy to watch and Lane Morrison and Jacob Battko could surprise some people.”

The Knights will field a young team with nine freshmen and five sophomores, but Lindell is well aware of the expectations.

“We will be young,” he said, “but I’m hoping that our competitive attitude will buy us some time until they get some experience.”

Eisenhower will be tested right from the start.

“We open with Union City (at home tonight),” Lindell said. “They are always tough, so it will be a good gauge of our season going (forward).

Lindell said it has been fun to watch his team come together.

“It’s been great watching this team,” he said. “The practices are fun again. They are putting in the work and bonding. Everyone is buying into the program and bringing out the best in each other. I’m hoping that translates into some wins and having some fun in the process.”