For the Rapids City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Youth Wrestling club broke last year’s record, advancing 21 wrestlers to the youth state tournament. The club sent 42 wrestlers to regionals across the state, bringing home nine individual championships and 12 runner-up spots.

“Every kid in our practice room has put a lot of hard work, effort, and dedication into the season,” said Coach Troy Freeman.  “As a coach, you feel honored to sit in their corner and watch the heart and passion that our kids wrestle with in every match.  It’s great to see 21 kids make it through to the state tournament and we’re looking forward to watching them compete in Madison.”

“The time the kids are putting in the wrestling room and weight room is paying off right now,” added Coach Nate Weidman.  “I am so proud of all of our wrestlers, coaches, and parents for their commitment to this program.”

Qualifiers, include: Reed Akkerman, 2010/11, 45 lbs; Owen Reynolds, 2010/11, 60 lbs; Aspen Tritz, 2010/11, 60 lbs; Porter Spohn, 2010/11, 66 lbs; Deegan Armagost, 2008/09, 60 lbs; Jackson Freeman, 2008/09, 60 lbs; Jasper Hebel, 2008/09, 100 lbs; Caden Schalinske, 2008/09, 100 lbs; Matthew Sering, 2006/07, 67 lbs; Gavin Jacob, 2006/07, 73 lbs; Aiden Armagost, 2006/07, 79 lbs; Carter Freeman, 2006/07, 85 lbs; Mason Tritz, 2006/07, 88 lbs; Kailar Tritz, 2006/07, 100 lbs; Cooper Meyer, 2006/07, 115 lbs; Tanner Gormanson, 2006/07, 210 lbs; Lucas Bean, 2004/05, 95 lbs; Ben Weidman, 2004/05, 110 lbs; Brett Back, 2004/05, 120 lbs; Ethan Freeman, 2004/05, 120 lbs; and Brian Olds, 2004/05, 175 lbs.

“The club is sending 10 first-time qualifiers this year, a huge reflection of the growth and momentum of the program” said Coach Justin Tritz. “The kids push and support each other, as strong practice partners and close teammates. I am so proud of all our wrestlers for having the courage to put their foot on the line, win or lose, to battle to achieve their goals.”

The WWF Kids Folkstyle State Championships will be held March 22-23, at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison.  Wrestling begins at 11 a.m. Friday morning for boys born 2006-2007 and 2008-2009, with boys born 2004-05 and 2010-2011 competing on Saturday morning.  Results and live streaming video will be available on trackwrestling.com.