Howard County 2016-17 wrestling team previews

2015-16 record: 5-6 county, 11-19 overall, sixth at county tournament Coach: Bruce Lindblad, sixth season (21st overall) Top wrestlers: Senior Joe Lazzari (195 pounds); juniors Stephen Frazier (145) and Cito Altamirano (152); sophomores Derek Noppinger (126) and Sean Billups (170). Nonleague duals: vs. Dunbar (Dec. 8); vs. Westminster (Jan. 28); at Century (Feb. 2). Tournaments: Joppatowne Duals (Dec. 16-17); Winters Mill Tournament (Jan. 6-7); Grapple at the Brook (Jan. 13-14). Outlook: The Raiders return six starters this season, including sophomore county finalist and state qualifier Sean Billups, who will compete at 170 pounds, and Joe Lazzari, who placed fifth at the regional tournament. They have 34 wrestlers in the room and will fill an entire JV lineup but will be short a couple weight classes on the varsity squad. “We will start out the dual meet season the first week going up against both Reservoir and Dunbar, both great programs,” said Atholton coach Bruce Lindblad. “We are excited with our underclassmen and our six returning starters.” (File photo by Jen Rynda)