SYCAMORE – During his first few matches last year, Sycamore wrestler Kyle Akins had a constant fear on his mind. A torn labrum forced him to sit out half of the season, and he couldn’t help but question whether it would tear again.

Heading into this season, that fear has dissipated.

After finishing fourth in the Class 2A 113-pound weight class at the state championships last year, Akins improved over the summer by competing in meets, and he’s more confident in his shoulder. The junior beat state qualifier Stephen Gust by technical fall on Thursday in Sycamore’s 55-16 win over Kaneland.