Platte County wrestling enters the new season with a blend of proven postseason pedigree, rising depth and a clear standard.
The Pirates return two of the program’s biggest cornerstones in junior 120-pound state champion Jaxson Shute and senior 215-pound state runner-up Cole Johnson, anchoring a boys team that now makes the jump to Class 4. On the girls side, Platte County brings back state medalist Charley Sims and a growing lineup that continues to push the program forward.
“The expectation is to get better every day and be a good team member,” Platte County head coach Reggie Burress said. “If we do those things consistently, everything else takes care of itself.”
That mindset will be tested immediately as the boys compete in Class 4. Rather than shying away from the challenge, Burress believes it can elevate the entire roster.
“We want to embrace the challenge,” Burress said. “Life is full of challenges, and you can meet them head-on for the best results.”
Shute’s return after a state title season sets the tone for a group that includes several proven postseason performers. Johnson’s run to second place at state adds veteran leadership in the upper weights, while Cade Crawford (fifth place), Jack Johnson, Grant Fadler and Quinn Lightle provide state experience throughout the lineup.
“Having returning state placers and qualifiers makes a difference,” Burress said. “They understand what it takes and help set the standard in the room.”
The girls program continues to gain momentum as well. Sims, who finished sixth at state, returns as a senior leader, while Ava Blankenship, a state qualifier as a sophomore, brings valuable big-match experience.
Burress sees a strong group of contenders pushing for state berths, including Nicole Fernandez, Karrington Friddell, Gabriella Ciccarelli, Anna Wiesehan, Harper Golden, Ava Blankenship, Ariel Humpreys, Katelyn Newberry and Arieana De La Cruz. First-year varsity contributors Newberry and De La Cruz are among those progressing quickly.
“It’s great to see them get better every day and build toward the postseason,” Burress said. “There’s a lot of excitement with this group.”
Ultimately, Platte County’s benchmark for success remains consistent across both programs. The Pirate boys finished fourth in Class 3 last year, while the girls remain on the prowl for their first state medal as a team.
“The goal is always to get a state team trophy,” Burress said. “Each year, we want our wrestlers to outperform their expectations.”
Early-season tests like the KC Stampede served as measuring sticks for both squads, especially as the boys work to get fully healthy. If Platte County continues its steady growth, the Pirates expect to be a factor when the postseason arrives.