Chandler’s Kobe Smith made it to the state finals and Alison Conway made the semis in the state wrestling tournament over the weekend.
It was an impressive showing for Chandler, competing under coach John Childress in his first year.
Conway, Bailey Bigbey and Adalyn Massie competed in the girls’ tournament on Thursday and Chase Massie joined Smith in the boy’s Class 3A tournament on Thursday.
“I’m very proud of what they did,” Childress said. “It’s been an extraordinary year for wrestling and for school.
“For us to be quarantined several different times, yet we still got to have a season and a successful season.
“They got to experience what only a few get to experience. And it was a thrill for me.”
As the wrestlers ringed the mats at the Norick Arena at the Fairgrounds, Chandler’s wrestlers appeared more focused and composed than average.
Childress said that was part of the team’s approach.
“We knew going in we had a job to do,” he said. “I told them: we have to wrestle as if it’s just another wrestling match and you have to prepare for it.
“‘Let’s work, let’s wrestle and see what we need to do.’
“My goal is for them to learn and enjoy this sport and have fun. They’ll have enough pressure when they’re adults, so have fun.”
Smith’s appearance in the finals served as notice to the other wrestlers near his weight.
“Kobe’s potential is as far as he wants to go,” Childress said. “He will have to put in the work, but he could well be a state champ next year. He does all the things right.”
Childress thanked the community and the school administration for their support during the season.
“I appreciate that kind of support,” he said.