As many may know, the Ledyard High School wrestling team has welcomed a major addition this season, a new head coach. It is no secret that this coach brings experience, discipline, and a winning mindset, qualities that many believe will lead the program to great success.  

That coach is TJ Hepburn. His resume speaks for itself. He was a four-time state finalist in high school, finishing his career with an impressive 200-4 record. He went on to become a two-time NCAA Division II regional champion at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he compiled a 118-60 collegiate record. Hepburn understands that success does not come easily or quickly, but he is eager to push the team to reach its full potential. He has expressed that he is “excited to be back and tired of coming in second place,” setting a determined tone for the upcoming season.  

The excitement surrounding the new coach is shared by the athletes. Senior Liam Humphrey believes that the change will have a positive impact, stating, “A new coach for us this season will allow us to grow as a team.” He also added, “This season presents a new opportunity for our program, and we are all excited to utilize it,” showing the renewed hope within the team. With wrestling being one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports. Practices often push athletes to complete exhaustion, and unlike most high school sports, wrestlers must compete at or below a specific weight class. Despite these challenges, the athletes remain committed. Junior Christopher Roberton shared his enthusiasm for the season, saying he is “very excited about the potential of the wrestling team” and that he enjoys practice because the team “pushes each other to the best.” 

With Hepburn leading the team, the athletes see this season as a fresh start filled with opportunity and growth. Junior Jackson Grimm summed up the team’s mindset perfectly, stating he is “ready to put up the ‘23 banner on the wall.”  

Senior Natalie Burdick is a staff writer for the 2025-2026 Colonel News site. She likes playing sports, including soccer, lacrosse, skiing, and sailing. She also enjoys being at the beach or in the woods!