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WIN’s State-by-State High School Teams and Wrestlers of the Year

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Updated: May 10, 2011

The following is a list, created by WIN high school editor Rob Sherrill, of the top teams, wrestlers and other highlights in all 49 states that offer prep wrestling.

Alabama

Team of the Year: Alabaster Thompson

Wrestler of the Year: Brandon Womack (112), sophomore, Scottsboro

All three team champions, Thompson (6A), Arab (5A) and Odenville St. Clair County (A-4A), were first-time winners. But Thompson, with Cadet National finalist John Austin Jones (145) winning a title, gets the nod by prevailing over perennial powers Hoover and Vestavia Hills after starting its program just four years ago. When Henry Carlson left Vestavia Hills to win his fourth state title at Virginia Beach (Va.) Frank W. Cox, the battle for the state’s top wrestler was wide open. Womack finished his sophomore season 74-0 with his third state title, and he went on to advance to the National Sophomores final.

 

Alaska

Team of the Year: Wasilla

Wrestler of the Year: Matt Malnoske (140), senior, Anchorage East

Malnoske became the state’s eighth four-time champion – at the same weight class his former teammate, current Arizona State University freshman Nathan Hoffer, became the state’s seventh four-time champion a year earlier. After his season concluded in December, Malnoske placed sixth in the Reno Tournament of Champions at 135. Palmer Colony saw its four-year 4A winning streak end with a fifth-place finish as Wasilla and Bethel (3-2-1A) won team titles. Sophomore Hope Steffensen (103) of Kenai Central became the second girl to win a state title, one of two to do so in the United States this year.

 

Arizona

Team of the Year: Oro Valley Ironwood Ridge

Wrestler of the Year: Kory DeBerry (152), senior, Tucson Sunnyside

Though its 13-year dual match winning streak was ended by Ironwood Ridge, Tucson Sunnyside won its 14th straight state title, this time in the revamped Division 1, keeping alive one of the nation’s longest streaks. It was an individual state title, since the state ended its dual state series and reduced the number of classes from six to four due to budget restrictions. Though DeBerry had his ups and downs due to injuries the past year, he did finish his career as a four-time state champion, with a 38-0 record. Ironwood Ridge, which earned the No. 1 dual seed over Sunnyside in the individual state meet last year before losing 35-34 in the dual state final, went on to win the Division 2 title.

 

Arkansas

Team of the Year: Conway

Wrestler of the Year: Tanner Mann (130), senior, Little Rock Central

Fifth in the 6-7A state last year and eighth as a first-year program two years ago, Conway became the third big-class champion in as many years – and the Wampus Cats did it without a champion, taking four second-place finishes, three thirds, a fourth and a sixth. Beebe High won its first A-5A team title, matching Conway at 255.5 points. Mann (36-0) pinned all four opponents to become a three-time state champion. Back in A-5A, Tyler Binford (22-1) of North Little Rock Central Arkansas Christian School became the state’s first four-time champion with three first-period pins and Eric Yarberry (145) of Little Rock Arkansas School for the Blind won for the third time.

 

California

Team of the Year: Clovis

Wrestler of the Year: Morgan McIntosh (189), senior, Santa Ana Calvery Chapel

Clovis and Bakersfield, locked in a 186-177 shootout for the state team title, led another strong Central Section state meet performance. Central teams claimed the top three spots in the team standings, seven state champions, 35 placewinners and at least two placewinners at every weight class except 189 and 215 (one each). McIntosh and Selma junior Alex Cisneros won their third state titles. Also repeating were senors Nahshon Garrett (112) of Chico, Nick Pena (130) of Selma and Bryce Hammond (160) of Bakersfield. Clovis advanced all 14 to the state tournament, but Bakersfield had six High School All-Americans, leading all schools nationally.

 

Colorado

Team of the Year: Colorado Springs Coronado

Wrestler of the Year: Connor Medbery (285), senior, Loveland

Coronado completed a wire-to-wire run as the state’s top team by ending Parker Ponderosa’s seven-year title run in big-class 5A. Medbery pinned his way to his third 5A title and has 10 state tournament pins in three years. Three-time champion Travis Himmelman (145) of Conifer advanced to the Senior Nationals final and seniors Austin Gabel (171) of Ponderosa and Joseph Martinez (135) of Greeley West also won their third titles. In one of the most anticipated 4A finals, Nathaniel  Garcia (145) helped Windsor to the team title, winning his second title by pinning two-time 3A champion Nick Adams of Colorado Springs Discovery Canyon.

 

Connecticut

Team of the Year: Colchester Bacon Academy

Wrestler of the Year: Patrick Gillen (215), senior, Shelton

Danbury had streaks of 10 straight State Open titles snapped by Class M champion Bacon Academy, and a run of 14 straight Class LL titles ended by Middletown Xavier. Senior Nationals finalist Gillen’s storybook senior season featured his second straight State Open title and Outstanding Wrestler awards in both the State Open and the New England Championships, where he led five Connecticut champions. The others: Conor Kirekgard (103) of New Milford, Tyler Keane (112) of Glastonbury, Brandon Walsh (135) of Jewett City Griswold and Joseph DiMichele (285) of Madison Daniel Hand, all juniors.

 

Delaware

Team of the Year: Camden Wyoming Caesar Rodney

Wrestler of the Year: Codey Combs (152), senior, Georgetown Sussex Central

Caesar Rodney swept the Division 1 dual and unofficial individual team titles (Bear Caravel Academy took the Division 2 dual crown). The Riders and Wilmington St. Mark’s each had four individual champions. Combs became the state’s ninth four-time champion and won Outstanding Wrestler honors as well with three first-period pins and technical fall. nd straight title. All five St. Mark’s state champions have won multiple titles. Seniors Tyler Pendergast (130) of St. Mark’s, Cody Broomall (140) of Smyrna and Issah Meade (160) of Caesar Rodney, the state’s only unbeaten wrestler, won their third titles.

 

Florida

Team of the Year: Brandon

Wrestler of the Year: Earl Hall (119), senior, Homestead South Dade

With 11 straight team titles and seven state champions, including four-time champions Rossi Bruno ((130) and Clark Glass (152) and three-time champions Kevin Norstrem (125) and Tyler Liberatore (135) – all still underclassmen – we could write about the Eagles all day long. But Hall became the state’s 11th four-time champion and Pete Baldwin (145) of Kissimmee Osceola took his second title, then made an impressive run to the Senior Nationals finals. Spring Hill Frank Springstead won AA with five champions led by senior Richie Bliss (103), and Junior Nationals champion Josh DaSilveira (189) led A champion Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons’ four titlists.
Georgia

Team of the Year: Suwanee Collins Hill

Wrestler of the Year: Randy Roden (171), senior, Rome

It was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Collins Hill. All the Eagles did was advance seven to the individual finals, place 10 in the top three and breeze to yet another 5A double title. Roden (47-0) won his second 4A title, then finished fourth in the Senior Nationals with seven straight consolation wins. Two other impressive High School Nationals competitors, Freshman Nationals champions Ryan Millhof (103) of Archer and Senior Nationals fourth-place finisher Jacob Aiken-Phillips (285) of Lawrenceville Central Gwinnett, were upset in 5A finals after entering the matches with records of 52-0 and 66-0, respectively.

 

Hawaii

Team of the Year: Honolulu Punahou School

Wrestler of the Year: Shayden Terukina (135), senior, Kapalama Kamehameha School

Punahou won for the fourth straight year as junior Todd Murakawa (130) won his second title to lead three champions. Runnerup Kamehameha had back-to-back three-time champions – Terukina, who pinned all three opponents, and fellow senior Jacob Luning-Hoshino (140). Senior Raynald Cooper (160) of Pearl City also won his third title. Winning their second titles: junior Cassidy Oshiro (114) of Honolulu Marykn oll School and seniors David Terao (125) of Honolulu Mid-Pacific Institute and Jheryl Makaiau (215) of Kahuku, the heavyweight champion last year.

 

Idaho

Team of the Year: Nampa Columbia

Wrestler of the Year: Tanner Hall (215), senior, Meridian

Hall became the second straight 215-pound to earn Wrestler of the Year honors. By winning a third straight 4A title, Nampa Columbia has been a state champion in more than half of its five years in existence. Other team winners: Coeur d’Alene (5A), Blackfoot Snake River (3A) and Declo (AA). The movement of teams between classes set up some riveting finals between defending champions. In 3A, V.J. Giulio (189) of American Falls became the 15th four-time champion by pinning two-time AA champion Randy Riley of Parma and Justin Ensley (119) of Homedale repeated in  a class that contained three defending champions.

 

Illinois

Team of the Year: Carol Stream Glenbard North

Wrestler of the Year: Austin Marsden (215), senior, Crystal Lake Central

Talk about a tough choice: Marsden was one of two three-time champions, two two-time champions and nine nationally-ranked wrestlers in AA alone. Glenbard North concluded an up-and-down season by winning its first 3A dual state title – after finishing third six times in the previous decade. Lombard Montini’s fourth straight dual title capped a season that saw the Broncos’ battles with AA foes Aurora Marmion Academy and Crystal Lake Central become one of the nation’s most intriguing three-team races. Marsden became the first wrestler above Class A to pin his way to a title in 38 years.

 

Indiana

Team of the Year: Indianapolis Perry Meridian

Wrestler of the Year: Jason Tsirtsis (140), junior, Crown Point

In a state that crowned nine unbeaten wrestlers state champions, three-time winner Tsirtsis had to be perfect; his workout partner, senior two-time champion Eric Roach (145), was, too. Perry Meridian survived close quarterfinal and semifinal matches to finish 28-0 and win its first dual title. The Falcons, who had advanced to three state final matches and advanced to state 10 of the past 12 seasons, did not win a pre-state meet dual by less than 20 points. Their average winning score: 52-9. Junior Kyle Ayersman (119) of St. John Lake Central and seniors Ethan Raley (135) of  Trafalgar Indian Creek and Drake Stein, Princeton (171) won for the second time.

 

Iowa

Team of the Year: Iowa City West, Bettendorf, Waverly-Shell Rock (tie)

Wrestlers of the Year: Zach Witte (145), junior, Cedar Rapids Prairie; Brody Grothus (145), Davenport Assumption (tie)

How do you choose between three teams that captivated the state’s wrestling fans in possibly the tightest three-team race ever contested? We felt they shouldn’t be subjected to that. Likewise in an individual field that featured plenty of talented wrestlers, but no one who stood head and shoulders above the rest. Witte beat defending champion Chad Ryan of Sioux City East and Gabriel Moreno of Urbandale, a pair of ranked opponents, back-to-back to finish 38-0 and win 3A. Meanwhile, Grothus beat returning champion Tanner Hiatt of Huxley Ballard in the final to finish 49-0, then won the Craig Wesner memorial Award for the Most Falls at the Senior Nationals.
Kansas

Team of the Year: Andover Central

Wrestler of the Year: Taylor Moeder (140), senior, Lenexa St. James Academy

Though his teammate, 152-pounder Ryne Cokeley, was a four-time champion, Moeder parlayed a Junior National Greco-Roman title into a 49-0 record, a third 4A state title and nearly a Senior Nationals title. He was one of just seven unbeaten wrestlers. Three-time champion Jake Gentzler (125) and sophomore brother Zac (103), a Sophomore Nationals finalist, led Andover Central in 5A. Wichita Heights, also with three champions, including senior Daniel DeShazer (130), took 6A, while Andale took 4A and Norton (3-2-1A) was the only repeat champion.

 

Kentucky

Team of the Year: Morganfield Union County

Wrestler of the Year: Caleb Ervin (152), senior, Morganfield Union County

With three-time champion Ervin leading four state champions, Union County won its third team title in five years. Ervin also was voted the Outstanding Wrestler after recording three pins, a major decision and a technical fall. Junior John Fahy (125) also became a three-time state champion, but it wasn’t enough for two-time defending team champion Louisville Trinity, which had to settle for second. Unofficial state duals champion Hodgenville LaRue County finished fourth. Freshman Brock Ervin (112), Caleb’s cousin, won his second title, as did Louisville St. Xavier senior John Lampe (160).

Louisiana

Team of the Year: Metairie Archbishop Rummel

Wrestler of the Year: Elijah Levee (160), senior, Mandeville

Archbishop Rummel’s double Fargo All-American 1-2 punch, senior Mark Pinero (140) and junior Scott Gibbons (171), won their second titles to pace four champions as they outlasted New Orleans Jesuit to win Division 1. Each team had eight finalists. Levee won his fourth title, his first three coming as a junior, seventh and eighth grade. New blood took over the state’s other two classes. Lafayette Teurlings Catholic dethroned defending Division 2 champion Baton Rouge St. Michael the Archangel with a 7-6 edge in champions. And New Orleans Holy Cross, the Division 2 runnerup last year, used six champions to end Brusly’s seven-year winning streak in Division 3, 265.5-254.

 

Maine

Team of the Year: North Berwick Noble

Wrestler of the Year: Forrest Cornell (119), senior, Lisbon Falls Lisbon

North Berwick Noble easily won its third straight Class A title, with senior Ben Valencia (140) winning his second title. Cornell became the state’s 15th four-time champion, also earning the Outstanding Wrestler award, as Lisbon Falls Lisbon won for the third straight year in Class C. Rumford Mountain valley won the Class B title. Senior Michael Cyr (215) of Scarborough became his school’s first New England placewinner, finishing third. Sophomore Connor Sheehan (103) of Fryeburg Academy and senior Jacob Powers (160) of Rockport Camden Hills, a two-time Class B champion, each finished fourth in the New England meet.

 

Maryland

Team of the Year: LaPlata

Wrestlers of the Year: Lex Ozias (152) and Bubba Scheffel (171), seniors, Oakland Southern Garrett (tie)

Teammates Ozias and Scheffel, whose real name is Jakob, won their third state titles and also finished high at the Senior Nationals. Ozias finished 44-0, Scheffel 44-1. LaPlata won its 4A-3A state dual matches by an average 56-18 score, then added the individual state title by a 132.5-79 margin with five finalists and three champions. Juniors Nathan Kraisser (125) of Ellicott City Centennial and Tyler Goodwin (130) of Gambrills Arundel won their third 4A-3A titles back-to-back, both finishing unbeaten. Severna Archbishop Spalding broke through to win the independent school title, with junior Eric Friedman (119) of Brooklandville St. Paul’s School winning his third title.

 

Massachusetts

Team of the Year: Franklin

Wrestler of the Year: Vic Avery (189), senior, Foxboro

It was a down year for the Bay State at the New England Championships, with just five individual champions. But there was still plenty of drama. Brothers Kyle and Devin Visconti from Malden Catholic, both seniors, took titles at 125 and 145, respectively. Junior Ryan O’Boyle (119) of Lawrence Central Catholic and Devin Visconti won back-to-back titles by reversing the results of All-State finals, Visconti beating Senior Nationals All-American Matt Buco of Andover Greater Lawrence Vo-Tech 10-3. Senior Nationals champion Avery made a strong bid for New England OW honors with a 7-1 decision and three major decisions. Newton Center Newton South senior Gabe Turetsky (152) also won.

 

Michigan

Team of the Year: St. Johns

Wrestler of the Year: Taylor Massa (160), junior, St. Johns

Massa stands head and shoulders above a state loaded with talented individuals. Though known for its individual power, Division 2 champion St. Johns finished the season 32-0 and earned its first WIN Top 25 ranking. Joining Massa as three-time champions: juniors Freddie Rodriguez (119) of Grand Ledge and Alec Mooradian (135) of Novi Detroit Catholic Central and seniors Conor Youtsey (119) of Mason and Roger Wildmo (152) of Durand. With four Senior Nationals All-Americans – two-time champions Joe Rendina (130), Chris Rau (140) and Justin Heiserman (189) and champion Joey White (125) – it’s hard to believe Dundee came up short in Division 3 once again.

 

Minnesota

Team of the Year: Apple Valley

Wrestler of the Year: Destin McCauley (152), senior, Apple Valley

Apple Valley’s sixth straight 3A title helped the Eagles cap their first run atop WIN’s Top 25. With McCauley becoming the state’s third five-time champion and juniors Dakota Trom (125) and Brandon Kingsley (140) and senior Matt Kelliher (135) winning their third titles, Apple Valley had seven champions for the second straight year and nine finalists, including eight straight from 125 through 171. Inver Grove Heights Simley was similarly dominant in AA – and the Spartans return all three champions and five of seven placewinners next season. Jackson County Central made it three repeat champions, the Huskies sharing the A title with Frazee, 28-28 despite a 9-5 edge in wins.

 

Missouri

Team of the Year: Neosho

Wrestler of the Year: Terrel Wilbourn (140), senior, St. Charles Francis Howell Central

The Show-Me State didn’t have the top-tier strength of previous years, but three-time Class 4 champion Wilbourn went on to win the Senior Nationals. In repeating as Class 3 champion, Neosho got plenty of mileage out of two-time champion Blake Stauffer (171) and his workout partner, fellow senior Dallas Smith (189). Cody Brewer (135) of Kansas City Oak Park became the state’s 19th four-time champion.  Kirksville juniors Austin Roper (125) and Travis Lang (160) completed unbeaten seasons in Class 2, and so did senior three-time champion Ethan Davis (145) of Monett.

 

Montana

Team of the Year: Bozeman

Wrestler of the Year: Jade Rauser (119), senior, Townsend Broadwater County

Tough call between Jade Rauser and his twin brother, Valyen (130), a three-time champion. But Jade (46-0) finished his career 175-0. Jade Rauser and Billings Senior’s Tanner Sprenkle, the 135-pound AA champion, made it 19 four-time champions in Montana – though Sprenkle needed a reversal with seven seconds remaining for a 5-4 title-match win. Streaks and title droughts came to an end everywhere. Bozeman ended Kalispell Flathead’s five-year winning streak and won its first title since 1972; Laurel won its first A title since 1998 by ending Havre’s four-year run; and Forsyth snapped Glasgow’s three-year streak to win B-C for the first time since 1992.

 

Nebraska

Team of the Year: Grand Island

Wrestler of the Year: Austin Wilson (160), senior, Hastings St. Cecilia

For the third straight year, Grand Island wasn’t tested in winning the Class A team title. Junior Andrew Riedy (130) won his third title. Wilson also became a three-time state champion and advanced to the Senior Nationals final. However, despite junior Thomas Gilman (119) and  senior Christian Loges (152) each becoming three-time champions, Omaha Skutt saw one of the nation’s longest title streaks end at 13. Central City outscored the Skyhawks 149-130 to take the Class B title. Gilman prevailed 12-5 over Connor Bolling of Central City as junior two-time defending champions met in the semifinals. Senior Chase White (160) of Lincoln High won his third title.

 

Nevada

Team of the Year: Las Vegas

Wrestler of the Year: Ricky McDonald (171), senior, Reno Bishop Manogue

After enduring ups and downs during the season, Las Vegas repeated as 4A champion behind brothers Alex and Napoleon Aniciete. Sophomore Alex (135) won his second title and senior Napoeon (152) finished his career as a three-time champion. McDonald won his second 4A title and went on to advance to the Senior Nationals semifinals before an injury ended his tournament. Sophomore Joey LaVallee (140) of Reno, a double Cadet National All-American, also won his second 4A title. Junior Jace Billingsley (152) won his third title as Winnemucca Albert M. Lowry repeated in 3A.

 

New Hampshire

Team of the Year: Plaistow Timberlane

Wrestlers of the Year: Nate (160) and Nick Lawrence (171), seniors, Plaistow Timberlane

The Lawrence twins won Division 1 and Meet of Champions state titles, then added new England Championships crowns to give the Owls a record fourth straight team title, sixth in the past seven years and ninth overall. Timberlane also won their 13th consecutive Division 1 team title and 18th in 19 years, along with a 15th Meet of Champions crown in 17 seasons. Nick Lawrence, a Senior Nationals All-American, beat Corey Beck of Derry Pinkerton Academy in an all-New Hampshire New England final and senior Jeff Cole (135) of Durham Oyster River, a two-time Meet of Champions winner, also advanced to the New England finals.

 

New Jersey

Team of the Year: Sussex High Point

Wrestler of the Year: Andrew Campolattano (215), senior, Bound Brook

In addition to edging South Plainfield, 30-28 for the Group 3 dual title, High Point’s four individual champions were a record in the region format era (adopted in 1960), and they won the No. 1 Team in New Jersey award. Paulsboro (Group 1) and Cherry Hill Camden Catholic (Non-Public A) won for the third straight year and Jackson Memorial (Group 4) also repeated. Back in the wrestling fold after originally committing to football, Campolattano became the state’s second four-time champion and was voted the Outstanding Wrestler. Alex Shaffer, Flemington Hunterdon Central, the 119-pound champion last year, did not come out, instead starring in the feature film “Win Win.”

 

New Mexico

Team of the Year: Farmington Piedra Vista

Wrestler of the Year: Daniel Martinez (160), senior, Las Vegas Robertson

Martinez capped a 37-0 season by becoming the state’s third five-time champion. Rio Rancho won its third consecutive 5A team title – by just two points, 177.5-175.5, over Las Cruces Mayfield. Those two points came from senior Shea Nolan, who scored a pin to win his third 215-pound title. The 3A title was decided by even less, as Silver City Silver edged Robertson 216.5-215. Junior Noah Villaba’s title at 171 gave Silver a lead that stood up as Robertson finalists at 215 and 285 lost. A 5A state champion as a freshman, DeShun Brown (112) of Albuquerque West Mesa lost in the final this year, but made amends with the National Sophomores title.

 

New York

Team of the Year: Clifton Park Shenendehowa

Wrestler of the Year: Nick Gwiazdowski (215), senior, Delanson Duanesburg

In addition to pinning his way to his second Division 2 state title, double Junior Nationals All-American Gwiazdowski capped his career by taking the Senior Nationals, adding the Jeff Reese Memorial Award as the meet’s Outstanding Wrestler. There were plenty of other standouts in Division 2. Senior Arik Robinson (112) of Peru won his fourth title and the Outstanding Wrestler award, junior Quinton Murphy (135) of Holley won his third title and three-time National High School All-American Derak Heyman (140) of Tioga and twins Owen (160) and Craig Scott (171) of Palmyra-Macedon all won their second titles. Junior Brian Realbuto (135) of Somers was the Division 1 OW.
North Carolina

Team of the Year: Winston-Salem Parkland

Wrestler of the Year: Harrison Honeycutt (215), senior, Mooresville Lake Norman

Honeycutt pinned his way to his third 4A title, including a 27-second fall in the finals. Two-time 4A champion Colin Campbell (285) of Roxboro Person, also a Fargo All-American, took a pair of state titles, then advanced to the Senior Nationals finals. Winston-Salem Parkland is a perfect 83-0 in two years in 4A – 41-0 this year – winning its fifth straight double title overall. Hillsborough Orange avenged a dual final loss to Concord Jay M. Robinson to reclaim the 3A title and Newport Croatan (AA) and Millers Creek West Wilkes (A) repeated. Three-time independent champion Chris Caton (125) of Charlotte Northside Christian Academy was a Junior Nationals finalist.

 

North Dakota

Team of the Year: Bismarck

Wrestlers of the Year: Eric Forde (119), senior, Fargo South; Joe Schumacher (140), Bismarck; Michael Nord (152), Lisbon (tie)

Forde, Schumacher and Nord all ended their careers as four-time champions. While Forde dominated en route to a 44-0 record, Schumacher fought through an elbow injury that slowed him at the start of the season. Nord took his fourth Class B title. Bismarck returned to the top of the Class A dual charts after having an eight-year title streak ended last year by West Fargo. The Packers almost toppled Bismarck in the individual team race, crowning four champions but falling 194.5-192. Valley City senior heavyweight Alex Andel pinned his way to the Class A crown.

 

Ohio

Team of the Year: St. Paris Graham

Wrestlers of the Year: Hunter Stieber (135), senior, Monroeville; Cam Tessari (140), senior, Monroeville; Chris Phillips (171), senior, Monroeville (tie)

See a pattern here? The final three in Monroeville’s Fab Four gave the Division 3 school a national-record three four-time champions in a single year – and, along with Hunter Stieber’s brother, Logan, in 2010 – four in two years. The three had eight bonus-point wins in their 12 matches. Lakewood St. Edward returned to the top of Division 1 and Graham won its 11th straight Division 2 title. Senior Johnni DiJulius (130) of Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit won his third Division 2 title and junior Felipe Martinez (152), who had won a pair of titles at Graham, took a Division 3 crown at Genoa Area. Graham had four two-time champions: sophomore Bo Jordan (145), juniors Ryan Taylor (112) and Isaac Jordan (160) and  senior Nick Brascetta (140).

 

Oklahoma

Team of the Year: Broken Arrow

Wrestler of the Year: Kyle Crutchmer (160), junior, Tulsa Union

All four team champions – Broken Arrow (6A), Collinsville (5A), Tuttle (4A) and Perry (3A) – were double champions, with Tuttle and Perry repeating their dual and individual crowns. By winning in 4A, Jeromy Davenport (152) of Sallisaw became the state’s 27th four-time champion. But the biggest finals drama took place in the 6A final at 160, where Crutchmer scored a 3-2 victory in the ultimate tie-breaker over defending champion Zack Skates of Broken Arrow. His brother, Brian, a junior, lost in the 125-pound final for the second straight year, 4-3 to fellow junior Kyle Garcia of Choctaw, who won his third title.

 

Oregon

Team of the Year: Roseburg

Wrestler of the Year: Zac Brunson (160), junior, Eugene Winston Churchill

Roseburg more than doubled the field in breezing to the 6A team title, and seniors Seth Thomas (152) and Dylan Fors (171) won their third titles. Senior state champion Drew VanAnrooy (130) may have been the most impressive Bulldog, however, finishing third in the Senior Nationals. Brunson pinned his way to his third 5A title. Hermiston dominated 5A in Roseburg-like fashion as junior Joey Delgado (135) and senior Curtis Berger (189) won their third titles. Burns extended one of the nation’s longest title streaks, winning its 10th consecutive 3A title.

Pennsylvania

Team of the Year: Bethlehem Catholic

Wrestlers of the Year: Nico Megaludis (125), senior, Murrysville Franklin Regional; Mason Beckman (125), senior, Greenville H.A. Reynolds

We didn’t pick between the Alton twins last year…and we’re not going to pick between the nation’s top two 125-pounders. Both are outstanding…and they’ll likely settle their differences in college, on multiple occasions. The Keystone State won’t run the table as they did last year, but Kenny Courts (189) of Harrisburg Central Dauphin is a worthy third to the 125-pound duo, as he helped leads the Rams to a surprisingly easy 3A dual title run. Unsung AA heroes: seniors Scott McKillop (160) of individual champion Lower Burrell Burrell and Ryan Hembury (189) of Muncy, who erased defending champions Cody Wiercioch of Charleroi and Stephen Ceremuga of Hadley Commodore Perry, respectively.

 

Rhode Island

Team of the Year: Warwick Veterans

Wrestler of the Year: Michael Meyers (130), senior, Warwick Veterans

Meyers became the state’s third four-time champion, and also became a rare three-time New England champion. Warwick Veterans won its first team title in 10 years, 239-189 over defending champion Cumberland and advancing six to the finals. The Hurricanes also finished sixth in the New England Championships. Junior Joao Vicente (125) of East Providence upset two-time defending champion Shoneil Lariviere of Cumberland 11-5 in the final and was voted the meet’s Outstanding Wrestler. An ankle injury kept Lariviere’s twin brother, Shaidai, from winning a third title of his own at 119. Senior Everett Desilets (140) of Cranston West won his second title and added a New England crown.

 

South Carolina

Team of the Year: Simpsonville Hillcrest

Wrestler of the Year: Aaron Hansen (125), senior, Summerville

Simpsonville Hillcrest (4A) and Hanahan (2A-A) were double team champions. Hansen won his fourth 4A state title, becoming the state’s 14th four-time champion. Timothy Dudley (189) of Columbia Irmo, who won his second 4A title, added the Junior Nationals title and is a three-time National High School All-American, and 3A champion Clay Walker (125) of Taylors Eastside, who pinned his way to a title, was the Freshman Nationals champion. Junior Jordan Wigger (119) of Summerville and senior Weston Beck (130) of Rock Hill, who lost 1-0 to Hansen in the final last year, won their third 4A titles.

 

South Dakota

Team of the Year: Rapid City Stevens

Wrestler of the Year: Logan Storley (171), senior, Webster

WIN Junior Hodge Trophy winner Storley joined former University of Wisconsin All-American Cory Wallman as the state’s only two six-time state champions. Not only did Storley complete a perfect state tournament career, but he also led Webster to the team title, 106.5-104-102.5 over Hot Springs and Colton Tri-Valley. The bonus points Storley earned for his two pins and two technical falls made the difference. Junior Alex Kocer (152) of Wagner won his fourth B title. The other standout 171-pounder, Kris Klapprodt of Rapid City Stevens, won his third Class A crown, then added the Senior Nationals title. Klapprodt pinned three of his four opponents to lead Stevens 152.5-147.5 over two-time defending champion Sturgis.

 

Tennessee

Team of the Year: Chattanooga Baylor School

Wrestler of the Year: T.J. Duncan (160), senior, Chattanooga McCallie School

The Division 2 individual tournament team title was decided in the final five matches each of the past three years, but Chattanooga Baylor School used seven individual champions to win comfortably this time. The Red Raiders were double champions, but Cleveland edged Division 1 dual champion Cleveland Bradley Central and Soddy Daisy, 203-200.5-197.  Duncan was a rare five-time state champion, but Baylor junior Zach Watson (125) could join him next year. Red Raiders senior Stuart Doster (140) also won his fourth title. Soddy Daisy junior Campbell Lewis (130) won his third Division 1 title.

 

Texas

Team of the Year: Allen

Wrestler of the Year: Ophir Bernstein (171), senior, Allen

The next wrestler with a chance to become a four-time National High School champion, Nick Herrmann (119) of Amarillo Tascosa, also won his third title. Bernstein was the lone senior standout for repeat team champion Allen, finishing 44-0. Defending champions met in the semifinals at 152, with Andy Rico, El Paso Eastwood, the 145-pound champion last year, scoring a 2-1 victory over Oliver Pierce, Allen, the 140-pound champion last year. Greg Wilson (180) of Keller Central also won his second title and, with a 64-0 record, was one of three unbeaten junior champions. Jared Trotter (130) of Allen and Aaron Walker (140) of Converse Judson both finished 27-0.

 

Utah

Team of the Year: Brigham City Box Elder

Wrestler of the Year: Derek Thomas (189), senior, Layton

After being involved in close team races year in, year out, Box Elder blew 4A wide open this year, breezing by a 312-182 margin. The Bees advanced seven to the finals and had five champions. Two-time champion Thomas finished 39-0. Juniors Mitch Brown (119) of Payson and Brandon McBride (171) of Salt Lake City Olympus won their third 4A title. McBride, who beat defending champion Brady Loveless of Payson 7-1 for his title, has won in three different states – at Gooding, ID as a freshman and at Lombard, IL Montini as a sophomore. Zach Hatch, Altamont, pinned his way through the state tournament for the second consecutive year.

 

Vermont

Team of the Year: Bennington Mount Anthony

Wrestler of the Year: George Mitchell (130), senior, Brandon Otter Valley

The nation’s longest state high school association victory streak stayed alive as Bennington Mount Anthony won its 23rd consecutive team title. The Patriots followed that with a second-place finish in the New England Championships, with senior two-time champion Zak Hale (119) finishing third to lead four placewinners. Freshman Rachel Hale (103) of Mount Anthony became the third girl nationally to win a boys state title and the freshman at the other end of the Patriots lineup, Jesse Webb (285), was a Freshman Nationals champion. Senior Makhmud Kachaliyev (171) of Moretown Harwood was the only unbeaten wrestler, finishing 44-0.

 

Virginia

Team of the Year: Christiansburg

Wrestler of the Year: Henry Carlson (145), senior, Virginia Beach Frank M. Cox

Carlson’s fourth state title followed three Alabama titles at Vestavia Hills, and sophomore teammate Brandon Jeske’s second title followed an independent school state title at Richmond St. Christopher’s School. J.R. Wert of Christiansburg, added his second title after winning in Georgia at Madison Morgan County his freshman year. The Blue Demons won AA for the 10th consecutive year, with seven champions. A fourth move-in who came up just short was Dennis Gustafson (119) of Woodbridge Forest Park, a North Carolina champion as a freshman at Raeford Hoke County. Richmond St. Christopher’s School won its fourth straight independent title.

 

Washington

Team of the Year: Orting

Wrestler of the Year: Chris Castillo (160), senior, Zillah

Castillo won his fourth title and Drew Templeman (125), Orting, could join him next year. Moses Lake had a pair of senior two-time state champions at the top of the lineup, Senior Nationals All-American Brian Chamberlain (215) and Kabe Fluaitt (285). Josh St. Marie, Snohomish Glacier Peak, defeated two defending champions to win the 3A title at 130 – Hunter File of Enumclaw in the quarterfinals and Marcus Crone of Yelm in the final. •••    Nick DesRoches of Chattaroy Riverside also beat defending champions back-to-back – Keegan McCormick of Tonasket, who won at 171 last year, 9-3 in the semifinals and Roman Velazquez of Cashmere, who won at 160 last year, 2-1 in the final.

••• – An earlier story suggested that Josh St. Marie pinned Hunter File in the 3A state tournament at 130 pounds. It was just a 7-5 decision for St. Marie, who did earn a fall in the championship match. File, meanwhile, finished third after losing the first-round bout to St. Marie.

 

West Virginia

Team of the Year: Parkersburg South

Wrestlers of the Year: Joshua Fisher (125), Spencer Roane County; Rusty Maness (130), Point Pleasant (tie)

Fisher and Maness became the state’s 11th and 12th four-time champions. Fisher, voted the AA-A Outstanding Wrestler, pinned his way through the state tournament for the second consecutive year. They could be joined next year by three outstanding juniors: David Jeffrey (119) of Parkersburg South and Adam Bicak (160) of Ripley in 3A and Fisher’s teammate, Dylan Cottrell (135) in AA-A. Two-time defending champions met in the AA-A semifinals at 152, with Damen Capper, Berkeley Springs, who won at 145 last year, beating Ben Laughlin, Grantsville Calhoun County, 2-1. Senior Kyle Bauer (130) of Wheeling Park, a two-time champion, was the 3A Outstanding Wrestler.

 

Wisconsin

Team of the Year: Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln

Wrestler of the Year: Jesse Thielke (130), senior, Germantown

Thielke became the state’s 11th four-time champion with three first-period pins and a technical fall. Fellow Division 1 senior aces Alex Dieringer (145) of Port Washington and Brad Dolezal (160) of Marshfield won their third titles. Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln won its third straight Division 1 dual title and 15th overall crown in 17 years, and Coleman also repeated in Division 3. Two wrestlers who split a pair of finals matches the past two years, 2009 champion Torin Boernke, Marshfield, and 2010 champion Siven Furseth, Janesville Craig, met in the Division 1 quarterfinals at 135, with Boernke winning 11-4 to end Furseth’s 82-match winning streak.

 

Wyoming

Team of the Year: Gillette Campbell County

Wrestler of the Year: Austin Breckenridge (152), senior, Cheyenne Central

Gillette Campbell County’s ninth consecutive 4A title was bittersweet. Camels junior Taylor Bear died March 19 of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, after winning his third state title at 125. Campbell County had six champions. Seniors Breckenridge and Brodey Serres (140), Lingle-Fort Laramie, who finished 44-0 in AA, finished their careers as three-time champions. All three heavyweight champions, senior Lane Millay (4A) of Casper Kelly Walsh and juniors Jordan Hanson (3A) of Lander Valley and Taylen Arnett (AA) of Lingle-Fort Laramie, pinned their way to titles.