Glen Lake wrestling has won its first MHSAA team district championship in program history after restarting during the 2023-23 season.
The Lakers got out to a fast start and held on against Benzie Central Thursday, 50-30.
“There were several swing matches that we knew had to go our way, and fortunately for us, they went our way,” Glen Lake coach Luke Moeggenberg said.
“We had some kids really step up and get big pins when we needed them. I could not be happier. I’m very thankful and blessed to have the community. We have a great coaching staff. Thank you to the family members here to help support us and celebrate the successes of this program since a very early stage.”
Glen Lake freshman Blake Alysworth earned the most competitive win of the night, courtesy of an escape move with less than 10 seconds left to go in the third period to give Glen Lake a slight lead halfway through the match.
“I knew I was coming in as the underdog, and I wrestled with my heart, and put everything I had on the mat,” Alysworth said. “
I’m doing it for my team. I had to come out on top.”
The Lakers move on to the regional championships at Mancelona Wednesday, Feb. 18.
The goal from the start of the season has been to win a district championship.
Glen Lake wasn’t sure the Lakers would be able to fill all weight classes at the beginning of the year, but athletes found a role and filled the ranks.
“I have the utmost respect for
(Benzie). They’re somebody who has helped us build our program. Coming into the night.
It was all or nothing.”
Glen Lake senior Jacob Peplinski sealed the first district championship in program history at the 285-pound weight class.
“This win felt so great. I went out there and just wrestled my match, and it worked out for me,” Peplinski said. “This is a huge thing for the program. I love the memories and the hard work that we put in to get to this point.”
