For the Tomahawk Leader
ANTIGO – The Tomahawk High School wrestling team traveled to Antigo on Saturday, Feb. 3 to wrap up their regular season at the Great Northern Conference (GNC) tournament.
The Hatchets took second place at the tournament, capping off a solid GNC season.
Medford claimed the top spot with 474 total team points, followed closely by the Hatchets with 355 points, while Lakeland secured a solid third place with 301 points. Mosinee, Antigo and Rhinelander trailed behind in succession.
The Hatchet grapplers came away with ten All-Conference titles out of the 14 weight classes, a testament to the combined efforts of seasoned veterans and promising underclassmen.
Sophomore Brayden Ristau at 106 secured a 3rd-place finish, earning him honorable mention All-Conference.
Senior Presley Gutbrod dominated the competition with a 1st-place finish and 1st team All-Conference honors, showcasing his skills with three pins on the day.
Sophomore Walter Horabic claimed 3rd place at 120, earning honorable mention.
Junior Jack Derleth secured a 2nd-place finish at the 126 lb. weight class.
Freshman Fletcher Baumann exhibited promising talent by securing 2nd place at 132.
Senior Ryan Larson with a 2nd-place finish at 138.
Freshman Zander Zehner impressed with a 3rd-place finish at 144.
Freshman Connor Jones secured 3rd place at 150.
Sophomore Kaiden Kapelliesh battled to a 3rd-place finish at 165.
Junior Blake Younker claimed 3rd place at 190.
“As the Hatchet wrestling team reflects on this impressive achievement, they eagerly anticipate building upon the foundation laid by their talented underclassmen,” a release from the team said, noting that the focus shifted to the Regional tournament, hosted by Medford on Saturday, Feb. 10. “With post-season wrestling officially underway, every match becomes a crucial stepping stone as these dedicated athletes strive through Regionals and Sectionals, aiming for the ultimate goal – the State tournament in Madison. The Tomahawk community eagerly supports its wrestling team as they embark on this exciting journey towards success.”