Wayzata wrestler on the move for state success

This is the year that Weston Droegemueller plans on making a splash.

The Wayzata junior has qualified for four previous wrestling state tournaments but has yet to finish among the top six.

Droegemueller, the son of Dave Droegemueller, a two-time state wrestling champion at Osseo in the 1980s, won the 138-pound championship at the Section 6, Class 3A meet Saturday. He's determined, he said, to make this trip to the state meet a memorable one.

Staff writer Jim Paulsen spoke with Droegemueller about his wrestling background and why this year will be different.

Q Why do you think you haven't been successful in past state tournaments?

A I was younger and more nervous. I was going against bigger, more well-known guys. I don't think I was mentally ready.

Q What would happen?

Q What is different about this year?

A I've been training all year for this. I think I'm one of the bigger 138-pounders. I've put in the time and effort and I'm a lot stronger mentally.

Q How much does it help to have a father with such a strong wrestling background?

A It's really a pretty cool experience. Anytime I need help, he's there. I see him every day, so we can talk wrestling wherever we are. He's always giving me little tips.

Q Is it non-stop wrestling at home this time of year?

Q Is it always instructional with your dad or do the two of you ever get down on the mat and actually wrestle?

A A lot of the time it's instructional, but every once in awhile we'll wrestle and have a little fun.

Q Who wins?

A He does. He's still got it. He puts his best moves on me here and there.

Q What happens if you get the upper hand?

Q Talk about yourself. What is your style?

A I'm pretty aggressive. I don't like to sit in one spot. I've had quite a few parents and fans tell me how exciting my style is, but it's mostly because I'm not sitting and thinking. I'm always moving.

Q Do you think your wrestling background gives you an edge?

A Yes. I've been around the sport for awhile so I kind of know what I'm doing. I can be aggressive and put heat on the other guy and I don't have to sit around and think about what I'm doing.

Q What would be a satisfying outcome for you in this year's state meet?