By: Brooklyn Swalwell (10)

For the wrestling team, this season was more than just wins and losses - it was a testament to growth, resilience, and belief in one another. Coach Luke Yarnell saw the team’s potential early on. 

“Last year, we took so many sophomores to state. I knew this group had something special,” he said. 

That experience carried over into this season, where the team’s depth across multiple weight classes set them apart from others in the state.

 “We had more guys in different weights who were successful,” Yarnell explained. 

That depth proved crucial at the state tournament, where seven wrestlers placed and contributed to the team’s third-place finish. 

“Placers are points at state,” Yarnell said. “The higher on the podium we can get them, the better the team does.” 

One standout performance came from Zyan Knollmeyer (11), who captured a state title with an undefeated season. What made him unique, according to Yarnell, was his versatility. 

“Zyan moves like heavyweights aren’t supposed to be able to,” he said. “He can switch from a slow, strength based match to an agile, athletic style that others aren’t prepared for.” 

While championships highlight success, Yarnell pointed to another wrestler as a true example of the team’s determination. 

“Without a doubt, Ben Holee,” he said. “He may not have placed, but getting to state and scoring points was a Herculean effort.” 

After a difficult start at districts, Holee battled through multiple state qualifiers to earn his spot.

 “He decided years of hard work weren’t going to go to waste,” Yarnell added. 

Beyond individual performances, what defined the team most was their unity. 

“Wrestling can seem like a lonely sport,” Yarnell said, “but this team had a camaraderie you don’t often see.” Teammates consistently supported one another, pushing each other through both victories and setbacks.That bond was tested during a difficult round at state. 

“There was about 30 minutes of feeling sorry for ourselves,” Yarnell admitted. “Then we realized there were still matches to wrestle.” 

The team responded by refocusing and finishing strong, an example of the resilience that carried them all season. More than medals, Yarnell is proud of the culture his team built. 

“They were a tight-knit group,” he said. “Our seniors led by example, both in what they did and what they said when the team needed it most.”

In the end, the team’s third-place finish reflected months of hard work, sacrifice, and belief. 

“Third in the state is always something to be proud of,” Yarnell said. “These boys earned it.” Through adversity and determination, the wrestling team proved that success is built on more than talent, it’s built on hope, hard work, and a commitment to each other.