Cody Mazzocca is ready to set high goals for himself.

It is his progress the past three years in the Bulldogs’ wrestling room and on the mat that has fueled his aspirations.

“I’ll channel all the hard work I’ve invested over the past four years, both during the season and the summer,” said Mazzocca, who posted an overall 26-10 mark last season. “I believe I have the potential to make it all the way to states this year.”

Mazzocca will be an integral part of a rising Bulldogs’ squad that expects to improve upon its 12-10 record in dual meets last season.

Head coach Scott Snyder, who begins his 10th year at the helm, will look to the senior to set the pace, and also anticipates Mazzocca will have a busy postseason ahead.

“Cody has been a full-time wrestler the past two years, and it’s been evident in the wrestling room,” emphasized Snyder. “He’s fallen short of becoming a regional qualifier in the past, but is a wrestler who has the ability to stand on the podium at Hershey in March.

“We’re excited to see where his commitment to hard work takes him this season.”

Bulldogs’ regional qualifier Sam Frame (27-10), Chase Moffitt (22-11), and Jack Tosh (22-12) are gone from their lineup due to graduation, but Snyder is confident his young squad can mature.

“We lost three key parts of our lineup last year to graduation, but last season’s freshmen are a year older and wiser,” said Snyder. “We’re expecting this young team to improve on last season’s wrestling across the board. We’re also expecting some of the underclassmen to join Cody Mazzocca in leading this team.”

Snyder will look to sophomore 152-60 pounder Mason Rothrock (21-12 last season), and junior 172-89 pounder Grady Newhard (22-11) for their leadership and guidance.

Freshman Jayden Weaver, who will pencil in at 121 or 127, finished third at the junior high district tournament last season.

“Grady Newhard and Mason Rothrock also find themselves on our list of expectations,” added Snyder. “They both compiled over 20 wins last season, and are two wrestlers we believe could have been district place winners. We’re hoping to see the two of them complete that task this year and punch a couple tickets to regionals.”

Even with some lofty expectations, Mazzocca wants to keep everything in its proper perspective for both him, and his teammates.

“Realistically, I don’t know how my year will unfold, but I’m determined to give it my all in every match,” offered Mazzocca. “With the unwavering support and guidance from all my coaches, I’m confident that I can achieve my goals and make a name for myself.

“I’m hoping for my team and me to perform exceptionally well. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to my team’s progress and improvement throughout the season.”

His coach has some similar feelings.

“As a team, we are expecting to be as competitive as last season,” said Snyder. “Our goal remains to qualify for district duals.”