Shorthanded and inexperienced, the Hazen wrestling team has still managed to start the season with a 4-1 Seamount record.

“Grades and injuries have had a huge impact on our season,” said Hazen coach Rory Magana. “We have not wrestled any dual matches or tournaments with a full lineup.”

With just Renton left on the league schedule, the Highlanders are in position to contend for the league dual-match title.

“If we can get out wrestlers healthy and fix our grade issues, we have a great shot at doing big things in the league and also in the postseason,” Magana said.

In addition to standouts Austin Clark, Daniel Karpman, Kyle Ely and Justin Russell, Magana said freshman Josh Kluth has been a pleasant surprise.

Wrestling at 103 pounds, Kluth took third at the Liberty Invitational, just his second tournament ever.

“Josh has a knack for learning something the first time it’s taught and being able to apply it to live competition the next day,” Magana said.

Hazen wrestles at Renton Jan. 27 to conclude the regular season. The 3A league tournament is Feb. 5 at Highline.