When the Patrick County wrestlers hit the mats this season in the Piedmont District, they will once again be young and lack experince, as the Cougars only return eight grapplers off of last year's team.

Coach David Morrison sees his top wrestlers as being Ryan Pennington, Brian Griffifth, Jacob Gunter, Dylan Farrish and Seth King.

King is expected to be the top grappler to make an impact this year.

The coach sees their strenghts as being strong leadership and and work ethic, while numbers and expeirence are a weakness.

"With this year's team we have a group of young men who are strong workers and truly love the sport. Although We are still very young and lack a great deal of experience, we have good leadership and young guys who are willing to step up to the challenge and compete," said Morrison. "We will continue to build on small successes each day until we get where we want to be. Numbers may stiil be anissue, but it's a little early to tell."

Patrick County opens its season on Tuesday. Nov. 29 with a home match match against GW Danville and West Stokes.