MEEKER | The Meeker High School boys wrestling season is just around the corner, and Head Coach Stryker Lane enters his second year in the role with a sense of confidence and purpose. Lane spent four years as an assistant under former Head Coach J.C. Watt, an experience he said gave him valuable insight into coaching and program management.
“The main difference is that I feel more comfortable in the role,” Lane said. “I have experience with the administration side of coaching now and I am less nervous about it. I learned a lot from Coach Watt in my four years as an assistant. We had many discussions about how to work with kids, their parents, and just overall program management. I believe I am a better coach because of the time I spent with Coach Watt. I still reach out to him if I need any advice.”
Lane said one of the biggest lessons he has taken from his time on the sidelines involves communication with stakeholders. “I’m trying to be more open with them and less ‘isolationist,’ I guess,” he said.
The Cowboys hope to build on a foundation of relentless effort and strong leadership this season. Lane praised his senior group, which includes state tournament veterans Holton Harvey, Tristan Rollins and Drake Jones. “I’m hoping they use that experience to develop as leaders,” he said. He also highlighted senior Aidan Buckler, who has been a dedicated team member and is poised to make a strong impact in his final season.
The program also welcomes a large group of newcomers. “We have 13 newcomers this year — 11 freshmen and two sophomores who didn’t wrestle last year. I’m pumped to see their growth and development this year,” Lane said.
Lane said the team is focused on recovering from an impressive football season while building a foundation of basic wrestling skills. The Cowboys’ schedule will follow a familiar pattern, with early-season tests at the Western Slope Showdown and the Warrior, followed by the TOC and the Spud Rumble in Sargent after Christmas. “Those will be good measuring sticks as we start to prepare for regionals and state,” he said.
With about 25 wrestlers out for the season — a few more than last year — Lane said the team’s youth is balanced by focus and dedication. “This team is young, but they seem focused on improvement and dedicated to the team side of the sport. They want to make each other better,” he said.
Meeker begins its 2025-26 campaign on the road, with the varsity competing at the CMU Duals on Dec. 6. The junior varsity will be competing at the Olathe tournament.
The Cowboys head into the new season prepared to compete hard, support one another, and continue building a wrestling program that reflects their commitment and determination.