The 2025 State A Wrestling Tournament was held at Summit Arena at the Monument in Rapid City from Feb. 27 to March 1, where Lennox High School was represented by Ramsey Williams and Grant Larson.
Williams reached the podium in the 150-pound division, earning fifth-place honors. Williams secured his spot by defeating Aberdeen Central’s Owen Ward in a rematch, delivering a dominant 17-5 major decision in the fifth/sixth place match. In the opening round, Williams opened with a hard-fought 7-2 decision victory over Jack Nelson of Brandon Valley. In the quarterfinals, he faced Owen Ward of Aberdeen Central and fell by decision, 12-7. Moving to the consolation bracket, Williams bounced back with a technical fall victory over Max Hunsley of Pierre T.F. Riggs, winning 17-1 in 4:19.
Williams advanced further by defeating Dylan O’Connor of Harrisburg due to an injury default. In the consolation semifinals, Williams faced Kalvin Ketelsen of Sturgis Brown and lost by decision, 8-3. Williams closed out his State run with a decisive 17-5 major decision win over Ward to claim fifth place.
Larson also competed State in the 144-pound division. He opened his tournament with a victory, pinning Jace Thurman of Sturgis Brown in 2:59. In the next match, Larson faced the state’s top wrestler, Aidan Wells of Sioux Falls Jefferson, and despite a determined effort through three periods, he lost by major decision, 8-0. In the consolation bracket, Larson faced Parker Wilson of Tea Area and was defeated by decision, 7-2, ending his State Tournament journey.
“Both Ramsey and Grant had a great tournament, seeing Grant come one mat short of his goal of placing was heartbreaking. Ramsey battled back through wrestle backs, beating his quaterfinals opponent for fifth place was outstanding. He dominated the match in positions,” said Oriole head wrestling coach Matt Hanson.
Hanson was
We grew as a team coming up short on some of our goals was unfortunate but having 6 wrestlers in the blood round at regions was a large improvement from last. We are gonna miss our Seniors Jack Aashiem, Emory Lefers and Nate Haar, their effort and leadership will be a challenge to replace. I can’t thank them enough for all the intangible qualities they brought to our room.