Three North wrestlers qualified for the IHSA State Tournament held at the University of Illinois. Although none placed, the trio prepared heavily throughout the season to make it to Champaign for the finale.

“My teammates motivate me the most. Having them next to me, cheering me on each match helped me focus and become more determined to win. Making it to State just pushed me that extra step and I hope to make it even further my senior year,” said junior Adam Blonski.

Throughout the season, the coaches pushed the team to an extra level in the weight room and in the wrestling room. Early morning and after school practices, each wrestler was expected to practice the moves and work the extra lengths to push them further into the season.

“Coming out of football season, I was physically prepared for wrestling; however, the practices still were extremely difficult. You’re moving around a lot for an extensive amount of time, which becomes physically demanding. It prepared me tremendously for the season and ultimately for State,” said junior Wake Caldero.

For the wrestlers that are graduating this upcoming May and this being their last season, it sometimes becomes surreal that they won’t ever return to the mat and participate in the sport that they’ve been in for the past four or more years.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s really over, but I hope to continue in college and pursue this sport that I’ve loved since I was young. This team has been my motivators, and it’s hard to suddenly leave it all behind,” said senior Angel Flores.