Mike Cole is always looking for improvement and Bethlehem Catholic will have a chance to show that this weekend on the national stage at the Beast of the East tournament in Delaware.

The Hawks placed three wrestlers in the tournament a year ago and finished in fifth place, but might be primed for an even better performance this year.

Becahi (2-0) has a busy week ahead of them before they head out for the weekend and Cole is doing everything he can to get them ready.

“We have two duals so, it is a booked week,” he said. “Rest more on Wednesday dual night and Thursday and Friday will be lighter practices. We went very hard last Friday and Saturday with the off weekend. Mindset conversations will be critical part of our practice.”

Keanu Dillard (126) and Shane McFillin (165) both figure to be in the running for medal contention this week after placing at the Ironman tournament to open the season. Dillard took third at the Beast last year, but should be one of the favorites to land in the 126-pound finals.

Charlie Scanlan (160) was also a finalist at the Beast last season and will look to make another run this time around.

“If we perform to our ability and have a proper mindset, we will put a handful of kids on the podium,” said Cole. “Never know which ones because of bracketing and matchups.”

Before they head out, the Hawks have dual meets with Allen and Whitehall on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively. After that, it’s all about getting ready for their toughest individual tournament left on the regular season calendar.

“We are consistently looking to improve our footwork, timing shots and misdirection,” said Cole. “On the mat on bottom we continue to try to develop on hip separation and angles so no one rides us.”