These days, Mikhail Hartranft doesn’t like to relive the past. Instead, the Catasauqua junior is concentrating on his current state.

Last season, he posted an overall 20-18 mark, and his season ended in the district quarterfinals of the 113-pound bracket. In the abbreviated COVID season of 2020-21, Hartranft was 6-1 and finished fourth in districts at 106.

“I am not worrying about what happened last year,” said Hartranft. “I can’t dwell on the past and worry about what I should have done. I just have to look forward.

“It didn’t work out the way I would have liked. Now, I know what I have to do.”

This season, Hartranft is off to a 6-1 start with four falls overall. His lone loss was a hard-fought, 11-8 decision to Conwell-Egan’s Kevin Bagnell in the finals of the 121-pound bout of the Rough Rider invitational.

Head coach Joe Russo realizes Hartranft’s determination and passion.

“He’s a man on a mission right now,” said Russo. “His first match against Wilson was evidence of that.

“He built a lead on a district placewinner then picked him off the mat and pinned him. The next day, he took second in our tournament, and he hasn’t lost since.”

Hartranft has worked on his escapes this season, and he also has taken some pointers from older brother Jaryn, who is currently a freshman wrestling at Wilkes University. The older Hartranft won 109 career matches in the Brown and White.

“I haven’t seen him wrestle, but we keep in touch,” said the younger Hartranft. “He always has helped me with a number of things.

“We talk often and we share a lot of different things about wrestling.”

The younger Hartranft also has taken the cue from his older brother about staying in the moment.

“I saw what he did last year,” noted the younger Hartranft. “It is about just focusing on yourself and not worrying about what everyone else does. I can only control what I do.

“I have to be the one who is out there attacking and looking to take control of things. I can see that this year, and it has worked out for me.

“I will probably go down to 113 for districts, and it is not a big weight drop. For me, it is about getting to states and getting a medal.”

Hartranft also has benefitted from the team’s fast start as well as their solid lineup. The Rough Riders were undefeated in three matches and hosted Salisbury Wednesday night.

“Everything has gone well for us,” said Hartranft. “We’re off to a good start, and we’re healthy.

“We have a number of younger wrestlers who are doing well, and our junior high program is solid. We’re all looking forward to a good season.”