Notre Dame wrestling: Charlie West enjoying challenge as senior leader

A year ago, Notre Dame wrestler Charlie West was merely a novice who used the physical advantage of being more muscular and conditioned to overwhelm the competition in the 215-pound weight class, win the Class 1 District 1 championship, and make it to the state tournament.

Now, West is the lone senior of a growing group of underclassmen, looking to him for leadership.

“I definitely have to wrestle my best whenever I’m the only senior,” West said. “Of course, my teammates are really good at helping me stay motivated and working hard in practice.”

The hulking 215-pound senior took first place in the Westminster Tournament and the Brentwood Invitational in December. He dominated his senior night match on Monday during a quick 48-18 win over St. Puis X.

Notre Dame senior Charlie West wrestles against St. Pius X on Monday, Jan. 8, at Notre Dame Regional High School. Tony Capobianco ~ tcapobianco@semoball.com

West started the season undefeated until going to the Poplar Bluff tri-meet on Tuesday and going up a weight class to wrestle Kennett heavyweight Kevin Thompson and was defeated by pin. Notre Dame won the meet 33-30 but lost to Poplar Bluff 49-18. While strength remains a key to his success, West said he has improved his leg shooting this season.

“Last year I wasn’t super good at shooting up until districts,” West said. “This year, I’m more confident with my shots and I think that’s helping me a lot.”

Notre Dame head coach Garrett Watson said earlier in the season that he noticed West being relying on his technique to win more than simply his power.

"He's becoming a much more technical wrestler," he said on Dec. 6. "Last year he only had like three months of experience for the entire season, like half a season essentially. Now he has more time under his belt. We've been able to work on some techniques, so he's not just muscling all the way through."

West said being the lone senior leader is challenging, especially going from a small squad of five last year to nearly three times as many, but the group has made his second and final year much more enjoyable.

“Some of the kids are a little immature at times, but it’s all fun and games,” West said, “having some of the underclassmen who are a little more lighthearted and just being able to enjoy matches more and have more fun to joke around a little bit.”

Notre Dame senior Charlie West wrestles against St. Pius X on Monday, Jan. 8, at Notre Dame Regional High School. Tony Capobianco ~ tcapobianco@semoball.com

Notre Dame travels to Sikeston for a tri-meet on Wednesday. Jan. 17, before the SEMO Conference Tournament on Friday-Saturday, Jan. 19-20, in Cape Girardeau. West will be the favorite to win his bracket on his way toward loftier goals.

“My goal is definitely to get a medal in the state tournament and go as far as I can,” West said.