Last Saturday at North Montgomery, Lebanon Wrestling brought a handful of athletes to step onto the mat competing at the IHSAA Regional Tournament.
It proved to be a tough day for the Tigers. Three of Lebanon’s four qualifiers ran into stiff competition and came up short in the first round, ending their seasons. Despite the results, their effort and fight reflected the work they put in all season, battling through one of the most demanding tournaments of the year.
At 175 pounds, though, Thomas Thompson kept his postseason dreams alive with a resilient performance. Thompson finished the day with a respectable 2–1 record, ending on gritty 1–0 victory over Carmel to secure third place in his respected weight class. With that win, Thompson punched his ticket to the IHSAA Semi-State Tournament at New Castle this upcoming weekend.
Even with the accomplishment, Thompson’s mindset remains focused forward.
“I’m not entirely satisfied with how the tournament went,” Thompson said. “But it’s over now, survive and advance is all that matters. It doesn’t get any easier as you advance through the postseason, but I’m focused and preparing for my next matches ahead.”
That mentality sums up both Thompson and the Lebanon wrestling program, acknowledging the setbacks, learning from them, and moving on with purpose. As they turn their attention to New Castle, Thompson will carry the pride of his team with him as the last tiger standing.
