The Cache Wrestling Team had a remarkable year filled with triumphs, challenges and unforgettable moments under the guidance of coach James Smith.
“I started the Cache boys’ program in 2013… It was 2022 when I started coaching the girls’ team as well. I went out and recruited some savages, and the next thing you know, we have a state runner-up trophy,” Smith shared, reflecting on his coaching journey.
Smith reflects on the team’s outstanding achievements, with this past season being one to remember: “Winning five tournaments almost back-to-back was a major highlight for us. The ball got rolling and never really stopped.” The Cache team claimed victories at the Blanchard, Philly Stampede, Western Conference, Catoosa, and Hub City tournaments, showcasing their dominance throughout the season. Their stellar performance culminated in a runner-up finish at the 5A state championship.
Speaking about the team’s performance compared to expectations, Coach Smith notes, “When they split the classes into 5A and 6A, I had a feeling we would do well and establish ourselves as one of the power teams of 5A.”
Reflecting on challenges faced, Smith mentions the struggle to get rankings the team deserved. “Cache had a hard time getting the rankings I thought we deserved. Some schools didn’t even put us in the top 15,” he said, highlighting the impact of his underdog season.
“I had a kid getting beat by 14 points and she pinned her opponent to get the win,” Smith said, sharing a memorable moment from the season. “You don’t see that very often, but Zaileah Rodriguez pulled this rabbit out of a hat twice in one season. Incredible!”
As a senior, Charlie Shafer became Cache High School’s first-ever state wrestling champion, a historic achievement that capped off a career marked by relentless hard work and perseverance. Starting in the second grade, he has been an integral part of the program since its inception, consistently pushing himself to improve and inspiring his teammates with his exceptional work ethic. His journey includes overcoming significant challenges, attending numerous camps, and never missing a practice, all of which culminated in his outstanding performance at the state championship. Charlie’s victory not only highlights his individual excellence but also sets a new standard for future athletes at Cache High School. Being a state champ to Charlie “feels unbelievable” because of the level of competition that he had to overcome.
Looking ahead, Smith sees areas for improvement while celebrating standout performances. “We graduated two starters (Laurel Hill -State Qualifier and CJ Landry -State Runner Up) but have five state qualifiers returning: Katelyn Patterson (2nd @ 100), Victorya Cox (2nd @ 120), Shiann Famero (4th @ 130) and Zoe Bennett (3rd @ 140) and Zaileah Rodriguez,” he said. Katelyn’s remarkable rise from outside the starting lineup to a dominant force in 100-pound weight class exemplifies the team’s depth and talent. He also mentions a foreign exchange student who made an impact on the mat: “Carlotta Manchini won the rugged Western Conference Tournament, pinning all of her opponents. She had a great run and has many stories to tell when she gets back home.”
Smith emphasizes the rigorous training regimen: “The girls train alongside our boys’ team. They have their own separate hour but also come to the afterschool workouts. They do everything the boys do. No exceptions.”
Reflecting on lessons learned, Smith talked about the team’s commitment to self-discipline and making good decisions, echoing the mantra of “do it anyway.”
Looking ahead, Smith’s aspirations are clear: “Cache was referred to as the dark horse team at the state tournament… Not sure we can ever be the dark horse team again.”
