MONROE — Despite the graduation of Brady Schuh — who took sixth at state a year ago at 145 pounds — the Monroe wrestling team returns plenty of talent. 

As a 285-pound state qualifier last season, senior Isaac Bunker leads returners in terms of experience. Bunker was also a regional champion and took second at sectionals. But he is not alone. Senior Jack Dubach was a conference champ a year ago at 145 pounds, and Christian Schuh took third in conference and qualified for sectionals.

Head coach Tom Witt knows what these athletes are capable of and sees the Kohl Center in some of their futures.

“We will have four guys that have the potential to be standing on the podium at the Kohl Center at the end of the year,” Witt said. 

Senior Austin Fuchs (220) and sophomores Garrett Minder (113/120) and Carson Menehan (132/138) also return varsity talent.

New to the team is senior Jordan Klocke (182-195), sophomores Owen Voegeli (106) and Joe Rufenacht (160-170) and freshmen Jaden Leistiko (106-113) and Connor Eckdahl (138/145/152). 

Witt needs his entire roster to stay healthy, as the team has a full schedule yet again and wants to fill all 14 weights in duals. A year ago, Monroe went 4-6 in duals.

“Dual meets will be tough,” Witt said. “We will have a young team and may not fill all 14 weights.”

With hard work as an emphasis, Witt looks to prepare his team for the postseason, including the conference meet and regionals. The Cheesemakers were 7 of 15 teams in the Badger last year. This season, Witt anticipates Reedsburg, Sauk Prairie, Stoughton, Milton and Waunakee as the top conference opponents.

The Cheesemakers will celebrate the 50th anniversary of 1973 state wrestling championship during its home dual on Friday, Jan. 20. The 1973 team and other state wrestlers will be recognized at this event.