The state wrestling tournament this year was the first I've attended. I have to say that I was impressed with the Scott West Panthers, their coaches, and their fans during the short time I watched.

I was happy to see Eddie Dvorak finish off a determined comeback after a tough first tournament loss.

Speaking of determination, Peter Eischens has a lot of fight in him. He narrowly lost a match with fifth place on the line. He ought to be proud of his performance, too.

Not to mention the other participants -- and winners -- who should also be celebrated among the state's best wrestlers. Good work, guys.

Remember, the welcome-home gathering takes place at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Belle Plaine Junior High's performing arts center.

(Mathias Baden is the editor of the Jordan Independent. He can be reached at editor@jordannews.com.)