The wrestling program traveled to Columbia on Feb. 28 for the MSHSAA State Championship at the Mizzou Arena. 

“As a wrestler, I prepared for state by spending time in the wrestling room and going over moves to best help me at the tournament,” senior Evie Ryan said.

Eight wrestlers from the Howell wrestling program qualified for state: senior Evie Ryan, juniors Anna Bowles, Mialee Copeland, Caden Helton, Dalton Lilledahl and Chevy Rosales and sophomores Emma Faszold and Kenadee McDowell.

“Qualifying for state felt amazing,” Ryan said. “Ever since I started wrestling freshman year, I have wanted to wrestle at the state tournament. It was a huge honor to make it.”

Three wrestlers placed from their individual matches: Faszold placed sixth, Bowles placed fifth, Lilledahl placed fourth, and McDowell placed third.

“It’s so amazing to watch these wrestlers get the honor of placing at state after watching them work so hard during the season. It really shows how much they have improved. They worked so hard during the season, and it’s so rewarding to watch them be successful,” wrestling manager senior Ava Delfosse said.

All the participants worked hard for this moment and gave it everything they had. With so many competitors, the team was proud to wrap up their season with a successful finish.