This year, the Solomon Gorillas wrestling team proudly sent three qualifiers to the state tournament in Hays, KS: senior Destannie Spear, junior McKenzie Rohr, and sophomore Richard Hardin. After a competitive season, coaches Jacob Johansen and Autsin Hardin celebrated their achievements with a vibrant pep rally.
Coach Johansen inspired the team with the motto, “Building Momentum!” emphasizing the hard work put in throughout the year. “I cannot stress how proud I am of these three and their efforts,” he stated.
Coach Hardin concluded the pep rally with a motivational quote from wrestling legend Dan Gable: “Once you have wrestled, everything in life seems easy.” He highlighted the discipline required in wrestling, stating, “When you’re on the mat, you can’t hide behind your team. Nobody is going to carry you; it’s just you.” Rich Hardin echoed this sentiment, commenting on the mental and physical training wrestling provides.
All three athletes competed on Friday, February 28th, during the first day of state matches. Hardin reflected on his time at state, “its one of the best experiences ... to watch all of the matches and seeing the strongest athletes.” McKenzie Rohr felt that the teams time at state gave them “the experience to prepare [them] for future years.”
Destannie Spear advanced to Saturday’s matches, making history as the first Solomon wrestler to win a match at state, despite not finishing in the medal rounds. She shared her insights on wrestling: “Having 100% confidence doesn’t always win a match. Determination is key. Walking off that mat, you shouldn’t regret a thing; you should know you gave your all. Each match is an opportunity to learn.”
Spear has been a key leader on the team, advocating for the program’s establishment at the school two years ago.
All of the Gorilla Wrestling team worked hard and put in the work this year. We are proud to have the three state qualifiers represent Solomon in a positive light. The Solomon wrestling team continues to build momentum!