Champions at last! The 2017-2018 Wrestling team won the first state wrestling title in Wahlert’s history. Wahlert sent four wrestlers to state this year: Kolton Bartow, Josh Ramirez, Boone McDermott, and Blake Bradley, ‘18. McDermott and Ramirez took first in their respective weight classes.

Ramirez had high expectations coming into this season. The Ohio State-commit coming from Louisiana had his eyes on the title all year long. In addition to winning state in the 160-weight class, he won his fourth high school title. “Being a part of Wahlert’s program is a blessing, and it’s a journey I’ll never forget. This state title was the exclamation point to our senior year!” said Ramirez.

Bartow agreed.  “It was a great experience, and it took a lot of people to make it happen. Without the coaches, and great Wahlert community, it would’ve never been possible,” said Bartow, who wrestled in the 170-weight class this year and returned to state for the second straight year. Bartow took second overall individually and helped win the team state title.

McDermott, who won the 220-pound title, had an impressive season all year long. “As I won the state title, it was a great feeling knowing all of the hard work had finally paid off. We overcame the odds and pulled through with the title,” said  McDermott.

The final contributor to the team title was Bradley, who wrestled in the heavyweight class (285) this season. Bradley placed fourth place individually. “It’s incredible. It is something that I will never forget or trade for anything,” said Bradley. “I’ll cherish the moment and the friends that have become family forever.”

We all know how much work the wrestling team put in this season, and it paid off with the school’s first state team title, which puts Banner #64 on the gym wall!