PERRY, GEORGIA — The wrestling season came to an exciting close last weekend as the Trojan youth program showcased their skills at the Georgia USA Kids State Wrestling Championships in Perry, Georgia.

More than 20 wrestlers from elementary to high school represented the Trojan Nation. The Trojans had 14 placers, led by two-time state dual champion Bailey Moore in the high school girls division and Andre Miller, who claimed the state title in the 12 and under first-year division.  

In the young division, Parker Shealey and Walker Smith placed second, Emma Miller, Hudson Lopes, and Elizabeth Herlugson placed third, and Balis Bennett placed 4th in the beginner bash. Connor Bell, Nick Bennett, Tytan Shakleford, Jasiah Lewis, Nathan Herlugsona, and Chloe Davis also represented the Trojans with great effort.

The middle school division was led by Miller’s state title followed by Ellah White finishing as the state runner-up.  Rylan Strickland placed third, and Gia Castillo, Kelsey Cox, Shaely Gonzalez, and Gavin Blaylock all finished fourth. Ali Jordan and Abbi Blalock also wrestled and represented the Trojans.

Coach Nick White, varsity boys wrestling head coach, could not be more pleased with the success this season for the youth program.

“I cannot tell you how thankful I am for these coaches, parents, and wrestlers,” White said. “Great programs have great youth programs, and great youth programs are born from a labor of love. Our coaches and parents are currently making sure we achieve those goals. Trojan wrestling is better because of this group of people.”

The wrestlers were fortunate to have talented coaches who led them to success, including James Bennett, Jim Bennett, Troy Bell, Jordon Loveless, and Justin Shealey for the youth divisions. James Bowers and Jakoby Cottrell cornered the middle school division and Bailey Moore. Overall, the Trojans had a tremendous showing this past weekend in Perry and look to build on this success in the future. 

CUTLINE: Pictured are members of the Trojan Youth (USA) wrestling team. From left, Parker Shealey, Hudson Lopes, Jasiah Lewis, Nathan Herlugson, and Elizabeth Herlugson. 

CUTLINE: CHS junior Bailey Moore claimed first place in her division at the Georgia USA Wrestling Championships. 
 

CUTLINE: Pictured is Trojan wrestler Andre Miller. He claimed the state title in the 12 and under first-year division.