Mask "masked up" with assistants Dustin Cook and Josh Highland last season

Wrestling camp next week

By Michael Butler

The Tallassee High School wrestling program is hosting a "Camp of Champs" on Monday, June 21 - Wednesday, June 23 from 6 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. each day at the wrestling gym on the THS campus. The cost to participate is $50 per wrestler (payable to Tallassee High School).

THS head coach John Mask and other wrestling coaches will conduct the camp. Three-time state champion and former All-American wrestler Josh Epperson is also assisting.

"Whether it be football or wrestling, our athletes play many sports," Mask said. "I'll see a lot of wrestlers at football. The kids work. That is what it takes to be successful and win. You have to keep trying to get better at whatever it is you're doing. If you don't you fall behind."

Mask said the wrestlers will prefer the evening hours for the camp.

"It is kind of hot. There is no air in that gym, but the wrestlers love it. They know this. We thought later afternoon would probably be best."

All the high school wrestlers will take part in the camp.

"We're trying to get prepared for next year. It will be a lot of wrestling. We'll try to learn some techniques and do some live situations."

Mask is looking forward to getting his wrestlers more matches next season with less COVID restrictions expected.

"I'm hoping things continue to improve. Last year was different. It will be a joy to have it return to normal."

A schedule for the 2021-22 season is already in place and there could be big changes for the next athletic cycle beginning in 2022.

"Not next year but the following year, I've heard they're going to four classes in wrestling. I'm hoping that comes to fruition. We've got guys coming up ready to step up."