Bethlehem Catholic has a new wrestling room adorned with new mats, freshly painted walls and updated lighting. They also have a new head coach, as Mike Cole takes over the program for Jeff Karam after he resigned in the spring after 15 years helping the Hawks become a state powerhouse.

So, it’s only fitting that Cole and program get a facelift in a new era of Bethlehem Catholic wrestling that hopes to keep the championships and gold medals flowing.

In order to achieve that, Cole has a few goals in mind.

“Improve our ability to escape from bottom position,” he said, “and improve our ability to recognize bad position on our feet and recover good position with a sense of urgency. We will measure success based on our ability to achieve this against competition that is either a PA state place winner or nationally ranked wrestler.”

The Hawks potential lineup this year includes

Louden Hower (107); Reef Dillard (114); Keanu Dillard (121); Mason Thomas (127); Ryder Campbell (133); Marco Frinzi/Shane McFillin (139); Shane McFillin/Marco Frinzi (145); Kollin Rath (152); Charlie Scanlan (160); George Pavis/Dario Cruz (172); James Deluise, Dario Cruz, Grady Miletics (189) and Jacob Lance (215).

The Hawks had seven state medalists last year and return defending state champion Keanu Dillard. Becahi lost state champion Nate Desmond and state medalist Jake Dailey to Wyoming Seminary, as well as Auggie Warke, who transferred to Schuylkill Haven.

Coming off District 11 and PIAA 3A team titles last season, the Hawks are still loaded with talent. Cole just hopes their goals can help translate to the continued success the program is used to.

“Wins and losses happen as a result of development,” said Cole. “Development happens because of the goals we set for this group.”

The Hawks open the season on Dec. 8 and 9th at the Ironman Tournament and then host Liberty on Dec. 13 in their first dual meet.