"Ha Ha! Next question."
That was White Knoll wrestling head coach Kyle Kimrey's response regarding his team's next match. Like most of his SC High School League peers, covid-19 has wreaked havoc on the upcoming season. 
On Saturday, the Timberwolves made their 2021 debut with 3 wins over Bluffton (51-21), Pelion (46-33) and defending Class A champion Bamberg-Ehrhardt (51-28)
Nevertheless, the defending Class 5A Lower State champions remain focused on going a step further than last year. 
"As far as excitement of winning lower-state last season, no one can take what we did last year away from last year's team," Kimrey said. "That was last year and this is this year.  So this team is focused on this season's goals.   
I was and am concerned about having a season.  To this point, we were unable to compete in a match or scrimmage so far this season. I think we're a very good team and we haven't had any opportunities to show that."
Among the returning grapplers were seniors Jason Garay (138 lbs.) and Ty Shealy (195 lbs.) and Eric Lopex (120 lbs.). Kimrey also believes Cam Rice, Dawson Prevette, Zak Kerr, Cole Banks, Davin Caulder can all have special seasons as well. 
White Knoll looks to return to action Tuesday with a Region 5-5A tri-match against Dutch Fork and host team Lexington. 
How the program can negotiate through the pandemic to get in position for another state title berth is the challenge. 
"We have definitely changed certain practice habits to minimize contact tracing, but at the end of the day, it's hard to control this virus and who gets it, who is exposed," Kimrey said. "There are just so many outside factors that play into this other than wrestling.  Things we do not have much control over."

River Bluff 66, Hilton Head 11
River Bluff 78, Blythewood 6
The Gators remained undefeated on the season and will play host to Chapin Wednesday.