Northfield junior Eli Gahl earned his spot in the IHSAA Wrestling State Finals after a strong third place finish at the Fort Wayne Semi State on Saturday.
Gahl went 3–1 on the day, improving to 48–1, and becomes Northfield’s first State Qualifier since 2013. Eli will compete Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
“Elijah has been locked in all season. He wrestled with poise and confidence today, and he earned this trip to Indianapolis,” Coach Shenefield said.
Junior Cail Dunphy fell one point short of advancing, dropping a tightly contested 2–1 quarterfinal and finishing 36–10. Rylan Turner capped his junior year at 35–12.
The Semi State also marked the end of two exceptional senior careers.
Brayden Rice (101–38) and Tate Barlow (132–33) both surpassed the 100 win milestone, with Barlow tying the school record for career victories.
“Brayden and Tate have meant everything to this program. Their leadership, toughness, and consistency set the standard for our younger wrestlers,” “They’re leaving behind a legacy that will be felt for years.”
Northfield qualified five wrestlers for Semi State and returns a strong junior core heading into next season.
“This group competed hard all year. We’re proud of them, and we’re excited to see Elijah represent Northfield at State,”!
