WARDEN - Warden head wrestling coach Brent Cox didn't mince words about the expectation for his team this season.

He thought the Cougars had a real shot at a 1A state championship and thinks his team's chances at a title only increased after Warden's transition down to 2B.

"There's still some good competition at B, but it definitely raises our odds for a title," Cox said.

Warden finished third in the team standings at last year's Mat Classic with 92 points, behind runner-up Forks and state champion Blaine.

Cox said he has a young core of freshmen out as well as returning state placers Miguel Canales, Jerry Reyes and Mikey Hernandez.

"I think we look very well," he said. "We've got a young group again."

Canales finished third at 113 pounds, while Reyes and Hernandez finished fourth and sixth, respectively, at 220 pounds. The fourth returning placer, Emilio Pruneda, was lost after breaking his leg during football season.

"We've got them all back and they're putting in the work in the wrestling room," Cox said.

Cox highlighted his team's depth and thinks he will have strong wrestlers at most every weight.

With the move down to 2B, Cox was allowed more flexibility in Warden's schedule. He took the opportunity to schedule tough opponents early and often.

Warden travels to Forks to open the season Dec. 5. The Cougars also wrestle Lakeside (9 Mile Falls) and Freeman who finished fourth and fifth behind Warden, respectively, at the state tournament a year ago.

In its first home action of the season, Warden will host - among several teams - reigning B champion Liberty Bell on Jan. 3.

"We've got a pretty tough schedule, but I wanted to see some competition," Cox said.