Next Wednesday, the wrestling team will step onto the mat for the first dual meet of the season at Christian Academy Japan. This opening match will also be the debut of the new varsity squad, as last year’s senior leaders have graduated, leaving new wrestlers to step up and take charge.
St. Mary’s enters the season with less mat time than other schools, making this meet an important early benchmark. CAJ is especially strong in the lighter weight classes, which means the early matches are expected to be fast, intense, and competitive. For many wrestlers, this will be the first real chance to show what they can do under pressure and test how far the team has come.
Team captain Jimin Kim (‘26) summed up the mindset heading into the meet:
With a new season, a new lineup, and plenty to prove, St. Mary’s will look to set the tone for the months ahead when they face CAJ next week.
