The boys’ wrestling team competed in regionals and sectionals the past two weekends, and two wrestlers advanced to the state finals on Saturday, Feb. 21—Matt Allen, junior, and Juwan Edmond, senior.

Six wrestlers advanced out of the regional competition to compete in sectionals on Saturday, Feb. 14. The regionals champions were Matt Price, Liam Drury, James Manikas, Niko Ivanisevic, Edmond, and Allen.

“Advancing out of regionals is really rewarding and an awesome accomplishment,” said Ivanisevic, sophomore. “All the hard work throughout the season pays off during the regional matches.”

Ivanisevic, who has only been part of the wrestling program for two years, has battled against more experienced wrestlers all season.

“It’s tough wrestling against some more experienced guys than me,” he said. “It’s a bummer I couldn’t advance out of the sectional.”

For Edmond and Allen, their seasons haven’t ended just yet. They travel to Champagne, Ill this Saturday for a chance to win State.

“I can’t wait to wrestle at State,” Edmond said. “I’ve been waiting all year for this.”

Edmond advanced to State by placing 2nd at Sectionals.

“My opponent at State is one of the best if not the best wrestler in the country at my weight level,” Edmond said. “It will definitely come as a challenge but I am ready.”

Allen has been a favorite all year, and will come into the State match as a favorite as well.

“I have fought all year,” Allen said. “It’s time for it all to pay off.”