“Zupancic and myself were very pleased about the team’s performance at districts,” said coach Brady Marlow. “I’m anticipating our two guys Paes and Bodovetz to compete hard and get what they have been working for all year and that’s to place at the state tournament.”

Bodovetz earned his spot at the state tournament through his semifinal win. Bodovetz took his only loss in his final match, yet is still ready to perform to the best of his ability this weekend. 

“The district tournament went well as I am one step closer to accomplishing my ultimate goal of getting on the podium,” Bodovetz said. “I’m anticipating a tough week, though, as everybody that’s made it this far has made it for a reason.” 

After coming in fourth at the district tournament, Paes is also looking forward to this weekend as he heads down to states with Bodovetz.

“I had accomplished what I set out to do when I set my goal to make it to states this year,” said Paes. “But after every match of mine it goes to the past and I get even more focused.”

Two weeks ago the wrestling team competed in the sectional tournament at Lake Catholic and three wrestlers moved onto districts alongside Bodovetz and Paes, in an attempt to earn a spot at the state tournament: Sam Brunner, Carter Gray and Morgan Harris.

This season has brought many challenges with the effects of COVID, including numerous schedule changes and a limited number of spectators, yet the boys have managed to persevere. 

“They have had one goal in mind and that is to make it and place at the state tournament…” Marlow said. 

Yet throughout it all, two wrestlers have managed to shine and show their immense dedication and talent for the sport. 

Prior to qualifying for states, Bodovetz and Paes both headed into districts as sectional champions. 

“Tyler Bodovetz and Donovan Paes have been on a mission, having wrestled awesome in the regular season,” Marlow said. 

Paes, with only three losses, and Bodovetz with 0 (up until districts), have both beat highly ranked wrestlers and should “have a great shot at making it to state and placing in the state tournament,” said Head Coach Josh Zupancic.

Bodovetz, having wrestled since the third grade, is ready for this weekend in hopes of accomplishing his goal. “My ultimate goal is and always has been to make it on the podium at the state tournament,” he said. 

Heading into states with a 37-1 record, Bodovetz also earned his 100th career win this season at the Hoban Tournament. 

“It was a great feeling, I’m not going to lie, and it’s something I’m very proud of…” he said.

Paes, having wrestled since first grade, has also been focused on securing himself a spot at states, “My goal for the rest of the season is making it to state, but I have to take it one match at a time,” he said before districts. 

Paes also expressed his appreciation and commitment to the sport,which shows in his notable performance this season, 

“I love every time I step on the mat. Wrestling means a lot to me and if I could, I’d do it forever.”