Editorial: Dedication to winning takes team to state

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, February 24, 2004

A big congratulations is due the Albert Lea High School wrestling team for their season-long effort which has paid off in a trip to state competition.

They earned the honor Saturday night with resounding wins over Big Nine rivals Faribault (53-13), and in the finals, Rochester Mayo (36-21). With only one loss on the season, the Tigers will wrestle at Excel Energy Center March 4 and 5 with an impressive 28-1 record.

The coach had high praise for his team, saying it was made up of solid wrestlers, in all weights, and perhaps more telling, they &uot;refused to concede anything to their opponents, no matter how good&uot; they were.

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It’s that kind of dedication to a sport or academics or a job that equals success at any age. That this team is reaping the benefits of their efforts is a good lesson early in life.

They should enter the Excel Center with heads high and a level of confidence unequaled &045; they have beat at least five state tournament teams this season.

While these talented young men have fought the battle for a state tournament berth on the mats, let’s not diminish the role of Head Coach Larry Goodnature. A talented team is nothing if they can’t earn the wins and a good coach knows how to capitalize on each team member’s strengths.

Parents and fans also play a part when a team goes to state. Without their support, players can lose spirit. With fans in the stands cheering them on this season, the wrestlers could concentrate on the competition, confident they had the best fans.

We expect the team will continue its winning ways at the Excel Energy Center next week and look forward to celebrating their return as champions.