Dusting off the mats

Clawson High wrestling is back, and that’s good news.

I know it wasn’t long ago, 2005 actually, that the Trojans had a team, but truthfully, it’s been 10 years or so since Clawson could boast a program that could come close to fulfilling the 14 weight classes.

This year, the Trojans have 10 athletes on the team, and though four classes are still being voided, it’s a step in the right direction.

Of the 10 wrestlers, four are freshmen, three are sophomores, two are juniors and only one is a senior. With a middle school program already in place, the numbers should only grow.

Adding to the optimism are coaches Terry Downs and Ed Macknis.

After spending some time with these guys, you can tell they’re passionate about the sport, and more importantly, they’re passionate about the school.

Both are Clawson graduates and have seen the program at its best — in the 1980s — when the Trojans could compete with anyone in the state. Both understand the tradition Clawson once had and are determined to bring it back.

As a 1999 graduate, I wish the coaches the best of luck and hope this current crop of wrestlers marks just the beginning. I can honestly say they are all making at least one alumnus proud.