(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central Board of Education has approved adding a high school wrestling program, beginning next school year.

The Board took the action when they met Monday evening following several months of discussion on the matter.

Superintendent Darrel Kohlman estimated a first year expense of nearly $17,000—including uniforms, equipment and coaches.

The Board was told Nemaha County Commissioners have approved allowing the school to use the Nemaha County Community Building at no cost for practices.

Kohlman said long-term, a location for wrestling could join other facility needs on the district's strategic plan.

Athletic Director Warren Seitz said at the first meeting of interested students and coaches, 24 boys and 3 girls were in attendance.

Seitz will serve as head wrestling coach and Mark Mayberry as assistant coach.

The decision to add a high school wrestling program comes after seeing first-year success last fall at Nemaha Central Middle School.

In other business, Kohlman informed the board that 4 individuals have expressed an interest in filling a vacancy on the board.

Position 1 came open after it was declined by the write-in winner in last November's election.

The board decided to send a questionaire to the four interested candidates. After receiving their replies, they will then decide whether to have them appear before the board for questioning.