Heading into his senior season, Whitehall’s James Hopkins has some high aspirations.

“I want to make states and place,” said Hopkins. “I would also like to break 100 wins this year. Those would be my main goals going into this season.”

Last season, Hopkins posted an overall 34-10 record, and he produced 18 falls. He recorded nine decisions, four major decisions, and three technical falls. He finished fourth in districts and sixth in regionals at 189 pounds.

Hopkins improved from his sophomore season when he had an overall 24-12 record with 16 falls. He also had six decisions and one tech fall at 215 pounds. Hopkins finished sixth in districts.

For the 189-pounder this season, it will be a matter of confidence as well as determination.

“I think I should be confident in everything I do,” stressed Hopkins. “I don’t want to have any doubts. That was a big thing for me last year, so I definitely have been working on it for this season.

“I improved from my sophomore to junior year with my speed, strength, and mentality.”

Head coach Tim Cunningham is well aware of Hopkins’ approach to the sport,

“He is one of the hardest workers we have in the room,” beamed Cunningham. “He is a total team guy who is willing to help the team above anything else. He is very coachable and gives effort.

“More importantly, he is a very polite, respectful and loyal individual.”

Hopkins began wrestling at the age of seven, and it began from the ground floor for his first sport. He credited parents Oksana and Guy for their constant support.

“I had to learn basics,” recalled Hopkins. “I had to learn everything since it was the first sport that I ever did. It was a matter of not just learning how to wrestle, but I also needed to gain athletic abilities.”

Hopkins also plays football, which he began at the age of nine. Once the football ended, Hopkins turned his attention to getting into wrestling shape.

He appears to be ready for the start of the season Dec. 4 at Nazareth, having last year’s finishes in the forefront.

“I thought that I fell short last season,” added Hopkins. “That will definitely be on my mind the regular season and postseason.”