History was made for Southmoreland March 12 as 285 pound senior Jacob Beistel took gold at the state wrestling tournament.
Beistel previously told the Tam O’Shanter that he “wanted to win and be an undefeated state champion.” The senior achieved that goal this weekend as he make an impressive effort from start to finish.
Beistel won his first match of the tournament in the first round against Ian Minnich of Williams Valley on Thursday afternoon. He won with a pin of a time of 28 seconds.
“Winning the first match you wrestle is very crucial,”Beistel said.” It sets you up with a positive mindset.”
As quarterfinals came along on day 2, Beistel got ready to wrestle Cameron Kates of Northern Lehigh. The match was nearly over as soon as it began, as Beistel pinned Kates with an impressive time of 19 seconds in the first period.
Continuing through day 2, semi-finals came next, and the senior was up against Brylee Shumaker of Redbank Valley. Both wrestlers kept it a close and interesting match as it was back and forth. Beistel came out on top with a final score of 5-3.
“It was a good match,” said Beistel.” He was good competition but I kept in mind what I needed to do.”
The championship bout was next for Beistel on Saturday afternoon, and all weight categories were preparing for the finals. There were 13 matches before Beistel’s, giving him time to prepare himself. Beistel was set to wrestle Zach Stafford of Cambridge Springs. Beistel scored a takedown along with an escape to give him a 3 point lead. Stafford scored two points on Beistel by two escapes. But after the first period scoring, Beistel stayed in control to win the match and make school history.
“To be the first state wrestling champion for Southmoreland is amazing,” said Beistel.” It was amazing to see the support and congratulations rolling in on social media after the championship match.”
Beistel finished his season with a record of 41-0 and a career of 151-18. He was coached each of his four years by Ryan Shaw.