BRAINERD — With three returning state wrestlers and more than half of the lineup back, there is a lot of excitement for Brainerd head coach Andy Pickar's first year.

Senior captain Easton Dircks finished with a 24-4 record and placed sixth in the Class 3A State Individual Tournament at 145 pounds as a junior. It was the second year in a row his state tournament finished with him forfeiting his final matches due to injury.

“Easton’s been wrestling in our program for what seems like forever,” Pickar said. “He is probably one of the most accomplished wrestlers we’ve had come through Brainerd. Easton should contend for the state championship and he always does. His sights are set on the top of the podium.”

Sophomore Tyce Faber finished with a 35-13 record after going one and done at the sta

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