HOISINGTON — The Ellsworth Bearcat girls’ wrestling team competed at the regional meet Feb. 11 in Hoisington for the opportunity to compete at the state meet next week in Salina.

Sophomore Riley Rodriguez had a successful day, qualifying for the state tournament and taking fourth place.

She went 2-2 for the day, starting strong with a win by fall over Zayda Urban of Hoisington. In the semi-final round, Rodriguez wrestled Atavia Cain of Oakley, who she had fallen to in their previous matchup in Philipsburg. She was not able to secure the win this time around either, getting pinned by Cain.

Not giving up, Rodriguez pinned Lidia Alfonso of Scott Community in her consolation semi-final round. She was not able to walk away with a third place medal after a disappointing loss by decision to Kenya Goss of Norton Community; nevertheless, Rodriguez secured her spot at the state meet.

Rodriguez said her success was encouraged by “knowing the regional was set up well for me to place and knowing my mom was there cheering me on.”

Junior Makenna Haas went 1-2 for the day. In her first match against Evie Vance of Norton Community, Haas lost by a fall. Turning the tables, she pinned Sarah Dardis of Hoxie in her first consolation round. However, in her second and final consolation round, she fell to Hadyn Blochlinger of Goodland.

“The most difficult part of the day was being so close but coming up short,” Haas said.

“Both girls have had a great year and should be back and contending for a state qualification next year,” Head Coach Steve Thorburn said. “I am proud of their efforts, and am excited to see how Riley does at the state tournament.”

The state meet takes place Feb. 23-24 at Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Salina.