Kennedy wrestlers Nolan Hromidko jr., Dalles Jacobus jr., and Ben Sarasin fr., qualified for the Iowa High School State Wrestling Meet this weekend at the district meet.

“I’m definitely looking to redeem myself this year,” Hromidko said.

Hromidko is a veteran to the state meet, he placed fifth last year and has high hopes to place even better this year.

“It feels good to be a leader for my team,” Hromidko said.

Jacobus and Sarasin both don’t have the experience that Hromidko has. Jacobus and Sarasin are both in their first year of wrestling for the Cougars.

“It feels great,” Jacobus said, “I never expected it, I expected to be average at best but the coaches kept telling me to stay with it and that’s what I did.”

Jacobus has only wrestled for one year previous to his high school debut this year. The lack of experience isn’t stopping Jacobus from feeling confident going into the state meet this week, starting Thursday, Feb. 19.

“I’ve been wrestling pretty well recently and hopefully I can keep it going,” Jacobus said.

The wrestlers are working alongside their teammates and coaches to be ready for the state meet.

“I will train everyday this week for two to four hours with my wrestling partner, Cam Shaver, and Coach Hynek will guide me in the right direction,” Hromidko said.

For their success this season and going into the state meet this week, both Hromidko and Jacobus agree that they couldn’t have done it without their teammates and coaches.

“Thanks to the coaching staff and my team for pushing me everyday,” Jacobus said.

“I’m glad I can represent my team and my school at the state tournament,” Hromidko said.