Pella Wrestling sent two wrestlers to State this year, seniors Ryan VanDonselaar and Kody Huisman. This was VanDonselaar’s first year qualifying for state and placed sixth in 160. Huisman was also a State Qualifier in 2020 and this year placed 8th in heavyweight. 

The two wrestlers were excited to qualify for state and compete. They were also proud of placing at state. 

“It was one of my goals, so to finally have the chance to go to state meant so much to me. Making the podium and ending up with 6th place was really exciting. It wasn’t quite where I wanted to end up, but it was still a really great accomplishment and I’m proud of how I did,” VanDonselaar said when asked about being a state qualifier.  

Wrestling at State was different for VanDonselaar compared to other wrestling meets. The energy in the room was entirely different compared to regular season meets, as well as the competition being tougher. There was also a difference between the State meet this year and previous years because of Covid-19. 

Huisman, who competed last year, said, “The thing I noticed most was the amount of people there. Last year the Well was packed up into the nose bleeds almost everyday. This year it was a lot more spaced out.”

The two both worked hard this season to get to where they finished at state this year, but they don’t put all of their success on just this season’s work. 

VanDonselaar said, “I definitely worked harder in the room this year than I had previous years, but I still think a huge part of my success in making it to state this year was from my practice effort throughout all four years of high school.” 

Cover Photo provided by the Oskaloosa Herald.