The Newkirk Tiger wrestlers came out on top once again by becoming State Runner-up in Dual State for the first time in school history.

“In Dual State they did a very good and exciting job,” said Assistant Coach Randy Hill. “It’s time to get to Individual State, Boys.”

At Regionals, they achieved two second, two thirds, and three fourth placers. With this, seven moved on to Individual State, realizing Coach Hill’s dream.

Next, they advanced to the Grand Finale, Individual State -- what it had all boiled down to.

“Wanting to go to State kept me driven,” said Johnny Buchanan, junior.

The last week of the season became harder on the seniors than freshmen and they had suggestions for their newest teammates.

“My advice to the underclassmen is give it all you got because it’s your last chance,” said Anthony McDonald, senior.

Doing their best like the leadership they’ve had, wrestlers found their way to the mat. All of the wrestlers moving on from Regionals pushed their hardest through the State Tournament.

Great things resulted from the tournament.

“Next year I plan on winning state,” said Trevor Summitt, freshman. ”Hard work and dedication helped me through the year, along with good senior leadership.”

No matter how hard it got, Head Coach Gene Bennett was still there pushing the wrestlers along with the same driving words: “Suck it up!”