The Mid State League has grown in size the past few years, which has spread out the competition, but depth remains the most important thing. Lisbon certainly won’t dispute that, after rallying to win the 2008 MSL championships by six points over Dirigo. Mainstays Mountain Valley, Dirigo and Lisbon should continue to lead the pack.

Lisbon returns all 12 wrestlers, 10 who placed in the top four in last year’s Class C state meet. That depth will go a long way. The Greyhounds’ strategy is to build momentum as the season progresses and maintain it through the tournaments.

Dirigo will have something up its sleeve. The Cougars are led by three-time state finalist Josh Palmer (36-2 at 160). There is also a strong supporting cast.

Mountain Valley has some young talent returning and will be a threat. 2007 state champion Ernie Matthews (135) will be on a mission. The late start after football is not a big concern because it’s all about getting prepared for a long season and improving every week. The Falcons will challenge for a class B title with Belfast, Wells, and Camden Hills.

A lack of wrestlers has prevented Monmouth and Fryeburg from being a factor, but new recruits bode well for the future.

KVAC

The Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference is the largest in the state, but creating separate Class A and Class B champions has provided greater incentive.

Morse will score points with Class A state champions D.J. Brackett and Spencer Chipman. The second-tier will need to score in order to push the team over the top. Mt. Ararat has quality athletes and will be in the running. Skowhegan has some good kids, who can be very dangerous against certain teams.

Oxford Hills is in a rebuilding mode and requires time to adjust. The Vikings will start slow, but have several underclassmen who could be factors late in the year.

Mt. Blue has been building its program back up, but in order to contend, it needs the younger kids to contribute. The Cougars’ youth program is on verge of paying off.

Belfast and Camden Hills will set the standard in Class B. Oak Hill usually starts slow, but the team won a record 20 dual meets last season and has high expectations. The Raiders return several starters, including Clyde Tibbetts, a state finalist in ’07 and third last February.