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It's been a long time since the Blazers have had two wrestlers qualify for state.

What's even better is that one of them, 125-pounder Luke Gillespie, has two more years remaining in his high school career if he sticks it out. Gillespie finished second at the regional tournament and improved his record to 36-4.

Joining him at state will be his senior teammate, David Chalker at 152 pounds.

Chalker, a member of the varsity football team last fall as a running back/defensive back, was third at the regional and carries a 31-14 record into the state finals.

The other wrestler who competed at the regionals, 215-pounder Eric Hayes, did not advance. He finished the season with a 25-11 record. Kalkaska's wrestlers tuned up for district and regional competition by battling their way through the rugged Lake Michigan Conference schedule.

After going against some of the state's best wrestlers during the regular season, the Blazers were well prepared for what awaited them in the postseason.

Chalker's run through the tournament has been special because it's his final season wearing the school colors. Naturally, his goal is to bring home a medal from state. But he's already set a standard for the younger wrestlers waiting for their turn.

His work ethic and positive attitude regardless of the situation has been an inspiration for the rest of the team. So has his sharp mental focus in each match.

Gillespie's advance to the state finals is special in its own way.

As a sophomore, Gillespie's potential has yet to be tapped. The Blazers are hoping this is only the tip of the iceberg with this talented wrestler. With two years left to work on his technique and strength, there's no telling how far Gillespie can take his game.