OMAHA — Two Elgin Public-Pope John wrestlers chased their dream all the way to the Nebraska State Wrestling Tournament in Omaha last week.
Sophomore Brett Kinney and junior Shane Beckman capped their season in Omaha, competing against the best of the best in Class D.
Kinney, competing in the 113-pound weight class, entered the state tournament with a 23-14 record. He faced Tyler Blevins (42-2) in the first round. Blevins showed why he had only lost twice during the season, pinning Kinney in 1:35.
Beckman (21-7) competed in the 138-pound weight class. His first match at the state meet was against Cody Krula (31-11) from Thayer Central. Out most of the season with a knee injury, Beckman gave Krula a great match. The sophomore from Thayer Central outlasted Beckman 8 to 5.
Both Wolfpack wrestlers next wrestled Friday in the consolation first round.
Kinney was paired against Korey Phillips (26-11) of Mullen. Phillips came out the victor, pinning Kinney in 2:59. The loss ended Kinney’s season with a 23-16 record.
On Friday, Beckman was matched up against Jaylon Sturdivant (24-16) of Maxwell. Sturdivant won by decision, 10 to six, over Beckman.
Beckman finished the season with a 21-9 record.
The good thing for Wolfpack fans is that both wrestlers will be back next season.
“It was a great experience for these kids,” Coach Doug Jones said about the tournament. “They can build on this for next year.”
