On behalf of the State Tournament Committee I would like to thank the hundreds of volunteers who step forward every year to make State Tournament what it is. This tournament is the pinnacle of so many and is fueled by their hard work, blood, sweat and sometimes tears. They deserve every ounce of sweat we pour into making this event grand every year. I won’t name everyone for risking leaving someone off the list; but these gentlemen and women deserve a special shout out Daniel Reling (Topeka Blue Thunder), Pat Kelly (Topeka Seaman/Jr. Vikings), Jason Ogden (Ogden’s Outlaws), Tim Herman (Jr. Vikings), Cheryle Seaton and family (Bonner Springs), Scott and Alicia Edwards (Dodge City), Sean McCarthy (STA/OE) and Tim Horgan (Topeka Seaman/Jr. Vikings). These individuals (and their clubs) put in a ton of time leading up to the tournament. When you see them on the mat tell them thank you. Thank you to all of the D3 clubs who stayed and helped roll mats and pick up clocks last night your efforts did not go unnoticed.

I would like to personally thank all of the Topeka area clubs who have put up with me begging for help this past month….especially my own club the Jr. Viking Wrestling Club who put up with me all year. BTW we have just one more task today, which is loading up the Dollamur mats to ship back at 3:00pm. If anyone can spare the time it would (once again) be greatly appreciated.

I really enjoy watching video and seeing pictures of your experiences from the weekend. I also like reading the personal stories of all your kids who have accomplished great things. Please use this post to share your favorite moments…brag away because you should be proud! Post links to your favor State Tournament action on this thread.

one of my favorites

Parade of Championions

One of the moments that caught my attention this weekend had really no direct connection with me or our club, but it was when Hope Blake claimed the state title. With the huge push for women's wrestling in the state of Kansas this helps prove that these young women put in just as much blood, sweat, and tears as the guys.

Congratulations young lady.

Lance Geyer

Hope Blake - State Champion (as filmed from the stands)

Another of my favorites!!!!

That is a huge accomplishment not only for Hope, but to women's wrestling. It seams as every year we see more and more girls at state. Just courious, Does anyone know how many girls where at state this year? I know of at least 4 that made the podium.

Very Well Done!

Smokeycabin

Jziegler- It was the biggest turn out girls state has seen. I believe the total was 144 girls.

I was meaning how many girls qualifyed to go to state in topeka?

Congratulations Hope! I know this won't be your last trip to the podium.

Hopefully we can get some changes made to the dates of our state tournament so that our girls don't have to choose between going to Girls Nationals and wrestling at Kids state.