Clarion-Goldfield-Dows isn’t hiding its goals this season. With the postseason approaching, the Cowboys have positioned themselves as a legitimate contender for a state dual title.
Currently ranked No. 2 in Class 2A, CGD has backed up those expectations with consistent performances throughout the winter. The Cowboys recently picked up a marquee win with an upset of top-ranked Class 1A Don Bosco and have built a lineup defined by balance and depth across the weight classes.
Head Coach Cory Yoder says the team’s focus has remained steady, even through setbacks.
“It’s been really a highlight season this year to begin with,” says Yoder. “I mean, starting the season ranked number one as a dual, yes, we did suffer a heartbreaking loss to Decorah a couple weeks ago at the Glenn Brand duals, but that hasn’t changed our motivation at all right now. We’re focused on that dual state title, and that’s the one thing we’re focused on really a lot right now, and that’s the main thing.”
Ten wrestlers currently carry single-digit losses, while several individuals are approaching major career milestones. JT Kelso recently recorded his 100th career win. Easton Beyer is also closing in on the century mark, while Dawson Beyer is nearing his 100th career pin.
Yoder says the team’s willingness to sacrifice and adjust for the good of the lineup has defined its success in dual competition.
“We have so many options right now,” says Yoder. “We’ve got kids that can move around and have done great things for our team. We are a team and our kids will do anything for our team because they are so focused on winning this dual state title and that’s our main focus coming in after this weekend. We’re going to put a lot of effort into that in the next two weeks.”
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows returns to action Thursday with a road triangular against Iowa Falls-Alden and Algona.
Coverage of the triangular will air on 104.9 KLMJ, with pregame coverage beginning at 5:45 p.m.
