Expectations never waver for the Bellevue Wolverines wrestling squad despite lacking a sizable roster.

The Wolverines, who have just 24 wrestlers on the team, are looking to build upon last season’s 13th place finish at the Class 3A state wrestling tournament at the Mat Classic in the Tacoma Dome.

“We finished 13th last year and 11th two years ago. This year we only have four seniors on the team. We’re more of a state-built team instead of a dual-meet team just because of our lack of depth in some spots of our lineup,” Bellevue head coach Kyle Smith said. “I think we can finish in the top five in state.”

The Wolverines will have to get through a formidable regular season, KingCo League tourney and regionals in order to fulfill their goals on the mat.

Smith said regionals are going to be especially tough considering the stiff competition his team will face.

“We are probably in the toughest region in the state. I would guess 10 out of the 14 state championships (Class 3A) will come out of our region. It is a pretty dominating region,” Smith said.

The regional tourney, which takes place a week before the Mat Classic state wrestling tournament, will consist of teams from Tri-Cities, Spokane, KingCo Division and the Greater St. Helen’s League.

Eastern Washington is known for its stellar high school wrestling programs.

The Wolverines will rely on the leadership of top-flight wrestlers Christian Villani (152) and Alec Palander (285). Villani won a state title in the 145-pound weight class and went undefeated last season. It was Villani’s second consecutive state title. Palander finished in fourth place in the 220-pound weight class. Bellevue’s dynamic duo couldn’t be more different on and off the mat.

“Alec is more the voice of the team and Christian is the quieter guy. Christian is very talented and is well ahead most high school wrestlers with his talent and experience. Alec is just a grinder and a hard worker. He came in as a first-year wrestler as a freshman and picked things up quickly. His only two losses last year were at the state tournament and were to the state champion and to the guy who beat him for third and fourth,” Smith said.

Smith said Garrett Williams (145), who is one of the Wolverines’ three team captains, is thriving during early season practice sessions.

“Garrett is one of those kids who is looking to break through. He is super talented and works with Christian (Villani) every day in practice. They push each other. He will surprise some people. I definitely expect Garrett to place at state this year,” he said.

Newcomer Brennan Holmes, who is a freshman 106-pounder, has impressed Smith with his vast array of skills in a mere two weeks of mat time.

“Brennan is just a stud and is such a raw talent. He joined our team two weeks after the first practice. The sky is the limit for him. He has just got an eye for the sport and is very talented,” Smith said.

Shaun Scott: 425-453-5045; sscott@bellevuereporter.com