Special to the Leader & Times
Eight Liberal Wrestling Club members started their Spring Break in Topeka for the
USAWKS State Championship. To qualify for the tournament, wrestlers had to place in the top four at their district tournament.
The tournament began on Friday, March 13 with the girls competition. Liberal was represented by Kendall Mosttler, 8U 75 pounds, and Sofia Torres, 12U 85 pounds. Both girls pinned their first opponents with a strong start to the day. Mosttler ended the tournament 1-2 with her first time at State. Torres finished 2-2 with both wins by pin.
On Saturday, March 14, competition continued with the boys. Brian Casas, Iovani Chavez, AC Gomez, Iker Hernandez, JJ Mata and Lill Osborn represented us. Hernandez ended the day 0-2 and Chavez ended the day 1-2. The other four qualified to continue to compete on Sunday, March 15.
Unfortunately, Mata was unable to wrestle on Sunday due to an injury that occurred. “We are very proud of JJ and sad that his season ended the way it did but things happen. We are excited to get him healed up to see what he can accomplish next!” Coach Krista Holcomb said.
Gomez ended the tournament with a 6th place finish. “This isn’t where he wanted to finish the season but he made the podium and made the team proud. AC is a great competitor that wrestles with a lot of heart. I am anxious to see what he does for this upcoming freestyle and greco season!” Holcomb said.
Osborn took 3rd place at State. “Last year, Lill didn’t make it to day 2 of competition. This year, 3rd place! He is a great example of what a wrestler should be. He holds himself high and competes with the most amazing sportsmanship you will ever witness!” Holcomb stated.
Casas also took 3rd at State. “Brian began wrestling with us as a high schooler. Each year he has improved. I am incredibly proud of his strong finish at State this year - especially since it is his senior year!” said Holcomb.
Liberal Wrestling Club took a week break and will be starting their Freestyle/Greco season Monday, March 23. Follow Liberal Wrestling Club on facebook to get more information on this season.
