The City High wrestling team is headed to the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The team had nine qualifiers, one more than last year, with a majority of the new varsity squad this year.

Five of the nine qualifiers won their district at the district tournament this past Saturday, being Kendall Kurtz ‘25, Donovan Gipson ‘26, Mason Tilley ‘25, Raphael Etuma ‘26 and Kane Willey ‘26. Chase Williams, a freshman, was the runner-up in his district, and Marshall Sheldon ‘28, Blaine Heick ‘26, and Laith Alawneh ‘25 all placed third.

“It’s been exciting, a new start coming here from Wilton. I’m feeling more confident than I have ever been, even though I’m probably one of the lightest wrestlers in my weight class (285.) I’m trying to go on a run this year,” Kane Willey ‘26 said.

Kendall Kurtz, perhaps the most experienced wrestler on the team this year with a 36-5 record and earning his 100th win this season may be the most motivated to win a title this year at state. He placed eighth last year, and now is aiming even higher. \

“My mindset is mainly focusing on one match at a time, it’s the most important match. Find ways to win, wrestle through everything. I wouldn’t say there’s different motivation at all heading into this year, but more of momentum. I have been on a tear recently and want to continue that. I’m motivated by how poorly I finished my state run last year, and I don’t wanna end my high school career like that, and finishing with the next best thing,” said Kurtz.

The first day of the tournament is on Wednesday, February 19. The tournament will continue until Saturday the 22nd when the third place matches and championship matches will take place.

“It feels good that year off really helped me get back to enjoying the sport and I’m coming into this tournament one match at a time,” said Blaine Heick ‘26.

Results from the state meet can be found at TrackWrestling.com.