ARLINGTON — Arlington wrestler Colton Ferro is feeling good this season.

“I feel like I’m in better shape than I have been in the past,” he said.

The senior credits his new-found energy to the guidance of Arlington first-year coach Jonny Gilbertson. And Ferro displayed that improvment at the Edmonds Invite, championing in the 195-pound weight class.

“It was just a good tournament,” Ferro said. “I felt good the whole time. I had a lot more energy.”

Under Gilbertson, the wrestling team’s practices have focused heavily on conditioning that comes with faster-paced drills, Ferro said, adding he had learned new moves as well.

Gilbertson is always looking for a “different edge” in his coaching philosophy, whether that’s looking for a new technique or sports psychology that can be implemented in practice.

Ferro’s conditioning came in handy when he swept the bracket, eventually defeating Brian Pullman of Squalicum 8-2 for the title.

It took him a while to warm up, but when he got into the finals Ferro knew he had to focus, Gilbertson said.

“All the wrestlers were good competition,” Ferro said.

Though Ferro benefited from the coaching, Gilbertson wasn’t surprised with the result.

“He has proven to me that he is dedicated for a successful senior campaign,” Gilbertson said. “He has the physical tools and the right mentality.”

Gilbertson said Ferro has showed up to every offseason practice, and has shown natural leadership qualities.

Ferro placed fifth in state last season, but said he’s ripe to take a shot at the title this year.

“There’s no reason not to go for it,” Ferro said.

He said he has a lot to work on between now and the state meet in February, but his coach said it’s simpler than that.

“The only thing standing in his way is himself,” Gilbertson said.

Ferro has wrestled since eighth grade, and also played football along the way, playing left tackle for Arlington his freshman year.

He likes hunting for big game in the fall, which is why he discontinued football. That, and also focusing on wrestling, he said.

He prefers wrestling because, “We all get along, and we’re kind of a family,” Ferro said. “But at the same time you have to count on yourself to finish.”

An avid hunter, he said he’s focused more on wrestling at the moment.

“I can hunt for the rest of my life,” he said.

Arlington’s Colton Ferro spars at a recent practice. Brandon Adam/Staff Photo