The Blackman Blaze wrestling team is fresh off a season that saw them boast an 18-5 record and ultimately win the district title over Siegel. A large part of that success is due to Matthew Sells, junior, who managed to compile a 49-2 and a state title as an individual wrestler.

This all came in a season that followed last year’s tragedy, which played a role in Sells’ and the team’s motivation and success this year.

“It feels really great, because I know Daniel could have been up on the podium with me. He was becoming a great wrestler,” said Sells, who was a part of the mourning firsthand.

One note of importance when viewing Sells’ state title victory is that he is only a junior.

“It is probably one of the best moments of my life. I have worked for years to achieve this goal, and now I have a chance to go for another title next year. [I think] I have a good chance as long as I keep training and working hard.”

For this week in Blackman, no Blaze shined brighter than Matthew Sells.