Special to the Leader & Times

Kansas hosted its State Freestyle and Greco tournament in Topeka, Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4. Liberal Wrestling Club made the trip and took 4 wrestlers to compete in the event. AC Gomez, Elias Holcomb, Marco Jimenez and Emanuel Zetino all competed.

The day began with Greco competition where all four competed. Holcomb, Jimenez and Zetino represented the team well but did not place. “I am glad they took on the challenge and put themselves out there to try for the state title,” Coach Krista Holcomb said.

Gomez started the day with complete concentration and his eye on the prize and it paid off when he won the first place match.

“AC has amazing upper body strength and Greco is definitely his strength. He has worked hard for this moment and I am so incredibly proud of all that he has accomplished. This was his day! He deserves that Gold!” Holcomb said.

Gomez, Jimenez and Zetino all competed in Freestyle at the conclusion of Greco. Gomez finished 3rd for Freestyle. With the placing for both styles, he has earned a chance to compete on the Kansas 16U National Duals team in Utah in June. He also secured a spot to compete at Fargo in June. “AC’s goal going into this was to make Fargo. He accomplished that and more this weekend! His goals don’t end here though. He is more on fire and ready to accomplish big things in the months and years to come!” Holcomb said.

Liberal Wrestling Club will be set up at the Farmers Market this Saturday. Money from this fundraiser will help the wrestlers attend tournaments, locally and nationally.

“We encourage the community to come out and support the wrestlers by purchasing baked goods and raffle tickets!”