Coach Jimmy Linn’s New Haven Bulldogs are one of the hot topics of Fort Wayne-area wrestling this pre-season as a team led by returning medalist Easton Doster has been bolstered by two-time state qualifier and two-time girls champion Julianna O’Campo.
Doster only lost one match last season and finished fifth at state and the Bulldogs were within punching distance of a spot at 3A Team State with a whole host of returnees coming back for 2023-24. With the return of O’Campo, the Bulldogs would theoretically be guaranteed a spot at Team State, as her points would have easily pushed them past Snider, O’Campo’s school last year, for a berth.
Instead, the Bulldogs will have to win their way into a spot. With two open (although it could be three if Snider declines their bid with O’Campo and De’Alcapone Veazy both leaving), there is still room for the Bulldogs to get in if they make it their goal.
Coach Linn’s team will have several opportunities to show their value with home duals against Oak Hill and Garrett, two perennial 2A Team State participants.
The Bulldogs will likely need to make it over all of the hurdles of the season to that point unblemished to stay in consideration. They will then face a stretch of 14 duals in eight days that will ultimately determine their fate. Wins over teams already invited to Team State, like Snider, Bellmont, Adams Central, DeKalb and Norwell will say plenty when the final spots are handed out.
Consider the Bulldogs a true contender for just about everything this season. From the NE8 to a spot at Team State, to sectional, regional and even a semi-state title this season.