OHS- Olympia wrestlers took on regionals, sectionals, and state over the past couple weeks to close out their successful 2019 season while reminiscing on the practices, meets, and tournaments that have taken place this year.
Seniors Lane Miller and Wesly Litwiller qualified for individual state on February 14th, both made it to top 12. Wesly finished the season with a 40-7 record and Lane with a 44-6 record.
Lane Miller said, “Our numbers were very low this season and our team record didn't reflect the talent of the team. There are a lot of young wrestlers that will flourish next season.” Coach Cleary and the rest of the team are very excited to utilize the potential on the team next season.
All varsity wrestlers performed very well at regionals. Seniors Lane Miller, Wesly Litwiller, Evan Gaither, sophomore Lucas Lawless, and freshman Ruger Underwood moved on to sectionals.
Captain Evan Gaither, said, “Regionals went great, Lane and Wesly won their weight classes and Lucas and Ruger went to sectionals as well. Sectionals also went very well for everyone who qualified.”
Coach Cleary commented on the season, “We weren't able to cover all the weight classes, but we had many talented wrestlers performing very well. We experienced injury struggles this year but the wrestlers worked very hard making improvements throughout the season.”
The 2019 team consisted of 19 participants. Class of 2019: Evan Gaither, Wesly Litwiller, Lane Miller, and Hayden Shay. Class of 2020: Matthew Bagby and Noah Newmister. Class of 2021: Landon Alcorn, Cayden Compton, Alec Gaither, Grant Kessinger, Lucas Lawless, Chase Mayberry, Jake Mitchell, and Ragan Roof. Class of 2022: Ashton Campbell, Brody Neuhaus, Austin Swan, Peyton Tackett, and Ruger Underwood.
Over the years, the seniors have experienced a lot of success. Evan Gaither had 66 career wins, Hayden Shay had 28 career wins, Wesley Litwiller with 108 wins, and Lane Miller finished with 120 career wins. The Olympia community sends our best wishes to the seniors and the best of luck to all returning wrestlers!