By Evin Barickman, sports editor
Hershey-bound wrestlers were honored with a send-off Wednesday morning. State tournament wrestling action kicks off at 9 a.m. on Thursday. (Photo by Claire Barickman/PantherPress)
Five wrestlers were honored this morning with a send-off as they head to PIAA Class 2A state championships this week. Senior Hunter Robison is returning to states, while seniors Landon Caldwell, Josh Perrine, and Owen Hershelmen, and freshman Carter Beck are making their debut at Hershey.
Last weekend at regionals, Robison placed first, Beck and Perrine placed second, and Hershelmen and Caldwell placed fourth in their weight classes to propel them to the state tournament.
Robison, who wrestles in the 113lb weight class, placed fifth last year at states. “I’m just really nervous and excited,” Robison said. “I look forward to the atmosphere, it’s really great down there. The team bonding is also great.” Robison finished this season with a 33-3 record and heads to Hershey with hopes of exceeding last year’s finish.
First-time state qualifier Josh Perrine, who wrestles in the 285lb weight class, ended the season with a solid 35-7 record. “I look forward to the experience that comes with making the trip down there,” Perrine said. “ I just take it one match at a time.”
Seniors Owen Hershelmen (27-15) and Landon Caldwell (40-5) along with freshmen Carter Beck (34-5) are also excited for the trip.
Caldwell, who wrestles in the 189lb weight class, anticipates having fun with his friends. “I’m just looking forward to being able to compete one last time,” Caldwell said. He also shared some advice for younger wrestlers: “Enjoy it while you’re young because it will be over in the blink of an eye.”
Prelims begin on Thursday at 9 a.m., and finals are scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 12. You can find results @PantherPressSHS.