HUTCHINSON – The Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association released its first regular-season boys wrestling rankings Tuesday, and several Hutch Post–area programs were represented.
Hutchinson High led all area teams with a top-five ranking in Class 5A along with six individually ranked wrestlers. Buhler and Lyons also placed multiple athletes in the statewide lists, while Haven added one ranked returner in the small-school division.
Hutchinson Opens at No. 4 in Class 5A
The Salthawks’ strong preseason expectations were confirmed as Hutchinson debuted at No. 4 in the Class 5A team rankings. Dion Brown earned the area’s highest placement in the lighter weights, checking in at No. 4 at 106 pounds. Teammate Cruz Cannon followed at 132, ranked fifth.
Hutchinson’s upper-weight depth also appeared in the first poll. Cooper Harris is No. 2 at 157 pounds, while Max Harris holds the No. 2 spot at 175. The Salthawks also placed Karson Etienne at No. 6 at 165 and Jackson Anderson at No. 6 at 190.
Buhler Places Two in 4A
Buhler’s lineup produced two ranked athletes in Class 4A. Senior Sammy Hershberger, a returning state medalist, comes in at No. 2 at 138 pounds. Sophomore Luke Kerns is No. 5 at 165 after a strong freshman campaign.
Lyons Lands Two in 3-2-1A
Lyons claimed a pair of early-season rankings in the small-school classification. Senior Jace Grizzle opens as the top-ranked wrestler at 165 pounds in 3-2-1A, giving the Lions one of the most notable placements among area competitors. Senior Easton Benavidez also enters the rankings at No. 5 at 113.
Haven Places Loughrie in Upper Half at 132
Haven senior Tanner Loughrie returned to the statewide list in Class 3-2-1A, earning the No. 4 spot at 132 pounds.