This winter Southern Lehigh welcomes new head wrestling coach Ed Labatch who took over he position after former coach Ian Beitler stepped down to pursue an administrative position at Wilson High School.

Prior to coming to Southern Lehigh, Coach Labatch coached wrestling for four seasons at Wilson High School. He also coached football for a total of 12 seasons at Wilson, Palisades, and Saucon Valley.

“I think he is a good coach. He is very encouraging and supportive,” sophomore Dylan Holschwander said. “He is also very helpful with improving new techniques.”

Labatch plans to improve on restructuring fundamentals and work on making the boys more physically and mentally tough.

“I want to make the program competitive, increase number of kids who come out for the team, and teach discipline,” Coach Labatch said. “There is a great bonding experience between the team and myself; they are a great bunch of guys.”

The returning wrestlers seem to agree, all stating that they like their new coach. Labatch wants to bring new things to the team, and the wrestlers are ready for it.

“Coach takes wrestling very seriously. He makes is his number one priority that everyone gets better,” junior Wyatt Noone said.  “He does not want to leave anyone behind, and that is what I really like.”