February 16 was a huge date for the wrestlers at Holt. Out of the many excellent athletes in the program, nine of them had the opportunity to go to state. The boys made the long drive out to Columbia, MO to wrestle at the Mizzou Arena.

The team worked incredibly hard over the season to get where they are. They put in the work, day in and day out. “Each wrestler has improved on their technical skills, their conditioning, and their mental approach,” Coach Moore said.
In the end, the hard work and preparation really paid off. Out of the nine that went to state, three wrestlers placed in their divisions.

Sophomore Colton Hawks took 3rd place in his division. In the third place match, Hawks took down Jonathan Floyd from Francis Howell Central. Floyd fell at 1:29 resulting in Hawks’ win.

Next, senior Jeff Farris was able to clinch 4th place. Farris was the winner against Trevor Liggett from Francis Howell Central. He won in sudden victory. Farris advanced to the third place match however he was not able to overcome Anthony Michaels.

The other state finisher was sophomore Carter Smith.  Smith placed 5th in his division. In the fifth place match, Smith went up against Cade Coons from Staley. Coons fell at 2:36, and Smith claimed victory.

Holt has a legacy that continues to live on. Congratulations to all the boys who went to state, and a bigger congrats to those who placed at state. Because of these athletes, Holt was able to be very well represented.