The Lions enjoyed their first season as their own program after splitting with Mount Vernon, sending two wrestlers to the state tournament.

Now Lisbon is back with more experience, and a few talented freshmen, in Year 2.

“Our numbers are down, but our experience is up,” coach Seth Hall said. “It is a fun group to be around.”

The leader in the wrestling room is sophomore Emma Dietsch, who is back after qualifying for state last season.

“She’s been around the sport a lot,” Hall said. “She knows how to operate. She’ll have a big role on the team.”

Three new freshmen – Grace Gadberry, Elli Avila and Cayla Stricker – all have brothers that wrestle and should contribute right away.

In addition, senior Abby Bock is out for the first time joining seniors Alina Mallie and Kaylee Jordan. And the program has one Springville wrestler, Kalya Moorman.

The Lions won’t have a full dual lineup, probably. “We have some JV girls, newcomers, we don’t want to throw them to the wolves,” Hall said.

But overall, expect growth.

“Our trajectory is looking good,” Hall said.