The Eastside wrestling team enjoyed a great deal of success in the 2007-2008 season.

The Eagles won the state championship, and their head coach Brandon Blakeman won AAAA State Coach of the Year from Team Georgia wrestling coaches and peers in March.

When asked about his thoughts about winning coach of the year, Blakeman said he was excited and felt honored. He added that he gives much credit to Eastside wrestling assistant coach, who brought ideas and energy to the team. Blakeman also said the Eastside wrestling team was the first male sports team from the school to win a state championship.

The next season will start Nov. 3 and run through Feb. 21. Through the summer, Eastside coaches have reached out to the community by offering their assistance to those interested in wrestling. Practie times run from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Eastside High gymnasium. Participation on Tuesdays and Thursdays has included those interested in wrestling from Newton and Rockdale counties, as well as, from Monticello Piedmont Academy. Blakeman and his assistant have also teamed up with other community wrestlers in offering training at their new facility located at 8108 Industrial Way behind Mamie's Kitchen off of Highway 278. You can learn more about this program at www.blackwatchwrestling.com.

The coaching staff has reached out to the youth in the community to assist with their wrestling skills. On the day Blakeman was interviewed, the Eastside gym was full of those interested in wrestling with mats covering the entire gymnasium floor.

The Eastside wrestling team coaching staff has reached out to the community to give a positive learning experience and to provide healthy exercise, physically and mentally, to not only their team but also to all who want to learn the sport.

Returning to Eastside this year is senior Trevor Bailey who has an impressive resume. During the 2007-2008 season, Bailey won state runner up and received awards from the South Metro Club - Team Wrestler of the Year and was named as the South Metro Club Champ.

Bailey also received the Iron Eagle award from Eastside High School, as well as, most improved in the 2006-2007 season.