SANDPOINT — There was a time back in the day that Sandpoint was the top wrestling team in the state, if not the northwest.

After a handful of down years by its lofty standards, the program has been on a steady incline, both in numbers and quality, and this season hopes to break back into the upper echelon of the 4A ranks.

After finishing 10th as a team at state last year, head coach Mike Randles is hoping his youngish team can make a big jump this season.

“We’d like to see a top five finish,” said Randles, admitting the expectations of the program are rising. “There’s an increasing sense of pride. We have guys that don’t expect to lose.”

One of those guys is sophomore Casey Randles, who finished third at state as a freshman and will be in the mix for a state title at 182 pounds. Randles went 7-1 at the prestigious Freak Show in Las Vegas this summer, and has added some weight and experience in the off season.

“Most people in the state expect him to be in the running for a state title,” predicts dad and coach Mike Randles, noting Casey’s strength. “Unequivocally, it’s his work ethic. He’s up at 5 a.m. everyday working out. An absolute grinder.”

Providing senior leadership will be Tyler Brown, who will jump up in weight class for his final season.

“He went from a 170 pounder who could do five pull ups to a 220 pounder that can do 15,” described Randles. “He’s able to move like a 170 pounder wresting 220 in terms of motion, stance and shooting.”

Tanner McNelley (145) is the only other senior in the lineup, looking to bounce back after missing most of his junior campaign with a broken collarbone.

“The team is strong in a lot of weight classes,” said McNelley, who is hoping to make it to the finals. “It will take a lot of work, staying late after practices, extra running.”

Junior Jake Williams (195) brings a competitive mentality to the mat, and after finishing fifth at state as a sophomore, could be ready for even bigger things. Scout Nash (120) has a wealth of wrestling experience, bringing a highly-coordinated style to his attack.

Mahonri Hunsaker and Tyler Presser make seven Bulldogs that Randles feels are capable of nabbing spots on a state podium, the highest number the Bulldogs have had in years. Presser got a concussion right before districts last season, and could be one of the breakout performers this season.

“He’s so explosive,” described Randles of Presser. “He knocked off a couple of state placers last year. He’s definitely somebody that could be flying under the radar.”

The Bulldogs boast a strong tournament team this year, but could struggle in duals with a lack of wrestlers in the lighter weights.

“The bigger guys are going to have to score some bonus points to make up for what’s down low,” admitted Randles. “We’ll really need to step up to the plate, do what we’re capable of doing.”

Steve Miller returns as an assistant coach, joined by former Priest River head coach Jake Stark and former junior college All-American Anthony Weerheim, giving the Bulldogs a solid staff.

The Bulldogs open the season tonight with a home match against Priest River. JV’s start at 6 p.m. with varsity to follow at 7 p.m. at Les Rogers Court.