On Saturday Feb. 17, as the Knights wrestling team boarded the bus for state, it was frigid, 15 degrees Fahrenheit with 20 mile per winds. The weather was inclement, but that’s not the only reason the Knights were shaking.

“Being such a young and inexperienced team a lot of the wrestlers had to overcome adversity and come to the realization that they belong on varsity and can compete with anyone,” said coach Zach Schnell.

The Knights had done that during the regular season, “The growth of all the wrestlers this year was very special,” said Schnell. The Knights had improved gradually throughout the season. However, state was a challenge many of them had yet to face. Coach Schnell was sending three freshman to state anda total of six first time wrestlers at state.

The bus pulled up to the towering CenturyLink Center in Omaha, and the wrestlers exited one-by-one, staring up at the monstrous arena. They were ready to leave an entire season of hard work and dedication out on the mat.

“When looking at where they all started at the beginning of the season to where they are now, it is very astonishing and makes me proud,” said Schnell.

The Knights fought valiantly, but most were eliminated early. Senior Cody Kirby, and juniors Arman Erickson and Braxton Betancur all won matches. Kirby lost in the next round of action. While Erickson and Betancur both lost in heartbreaking fashion, one round short of receiving a medal.

The young Knights’ wrestling squad fought hard this season, exceeding expectations, leaving lots of hope for next season as the Knights return eight wrestlers to the varsity lineup. The seniors on the varsity squad were James Hamlette, Preston Gallegos, Anthony Bailous, Quinn Reis, Cody Kirby, Dawson Effle, and Jacen Reeb.