On Feb. 6, Powell High School’s (PHS) boys wrestling team handed the spotlight over to their seniors for recognition before the varsity dual against the Thermopolis Bobcats. The Panthers would recognize 14 wrestlers and two managers.
The JV squad fought their way through their matches before the shorthanded girls team brought two wins and one loss from the three wrestlers who competed. After those duals concluded, almost 15 senior wrestlers had the opportunity to walk on the mat with their parents.
“My senior night was a little anticlimactic because I didn’t have a match, which was a little disappointing,” senior Jacob Eaton said. “It was fun seeing my friends go wrestle, and I was happy to be there for support.”
6-0 Powell was the score to kickoff the night after a Thermopolis forfeit in the 106 pound match. However, the score was quickly tied at 6-6 after the Panthers were pinned in the 113 pound contest.
After another forfeit, a 13-1 major decision, and two Bobcat and Panther pins, the score read 28-18 before a thrilling match took place that starred senior Cody Seifert at 157 pounds.
“Everyone was on the edge of their seats during Cody’s match,” senior and wrestling manager Hadlee Lennon said. “Wrestling is always a roller coaster, each match is up and down, back and forth.”
Seifert had a 10-7 lead as the first period of his match ended. The match lasted just under four and a half minutes once Seifert was able to pin his competition with only 33 seconds remaining in the second period to boost the Panthers lead to 34-18.
Three forfeits, a PHS pin, and a Thermopolis 10-1 major decision closed out the dual that resulted in a 58-22 victory for the Panthers.
“I always loved [wrestling], and I’m glad I had the opportunity to manage it the past four years,” Lennon said. “It’s been super amazing. It’s one of my favorite things I did in high school, just a great community of guys, parents, and coaches.”
Powell’s dominant victory is a testament to how significant it is in the lives of the Class of 2025. They give high praise to wrestling due to its role in helping them grow.
“Panther wrestling helped me turn into the person I am today,” Eaton said. “It has given me a work ethic and confidence that I use everyday in life.”
While the seniors will miss their time wrestling in the orange and black, they leave behind a legacy that was essential to the team’s success. They ultimately did more than put points on the scoreboard.
“This year’s senior class has consistently been workers and comprised the core of our varsity lineup for the last two-three years,” history teacher and Head Wrestling Coach Mr. Nick Fulton said. “I think their best attribute is the ability to see and fully comprehend the big picture while focusing on the small details required to get there. They are a special group and will be missed.”
