Harper has high hope with super seven

Junior college wrestling teams from around the country will gather at the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center in Des Moines, Iowa, for the NJCAA championships this weekend.

Opening-round bouts begin at 9 a.m. Friday, with championship bouts being held Saturday — and Harper College hopes to be among the teams still in the title hunt.

Harper had to qualify from one of the best regions in the midwest, featuring several ranked foes.

The Hawks were able to qualify seven wrestlers for the meet.

Coach Dan Loprieno’s expectations are simple. He believes all seven Hawks could earn All-American honors.

Steve Dewitt and Josh Tardy are two Loprieno believes can set the right tone for his team.

“Steve and Josh have been the leaders in the room the whole year,” Loprieno said.

Dewitt will compete at 157 pounds, whle Tardy will compete at 141.

At 133, Zach Humble could be characterized as the “blue-collar” guy in Loprieno’s room.

Another one to watch is Barrington product Kalvin Argueta. He’s got a chance at a title at 184 pounds.

Mike Summerville will also be part of the effort in Des Moines.

“He has had a good career for us,” Loprieno said. “It’s all about peaking at the right time.”

Despite fewer total qualifiers than usual, Harper believes it can be in the mix when it comes to the team title.

“We are still in the hunt for a championship,” Loprieno said.

In order to maxamize point potential, Loprieno says Harper needs “all seven to step up and have a good weekend.”