Thomas wraps up career at state

Chad Thomas ended his Aledo High School wrestling career making history at the University Interscholastic League State Tournament this past weekend, Feb. 17-18 at the Berry Center in Cypress.

Thomas placed 10th in the 120-pound division, scoring two points. He’s the first Bearcat to win a match at state and those are the first points Aledo has ever scored at state.

Thomas went 1-2 in his matches at state. He finished the season with a record of 30-10.

“Chad had a great tournament. It was tough bracket and he was able to get a win against a kid that beat us earlier in the year,” Aledo coach Austin Stockon said. “Both of the kids Chad lost to placed fourth and fifth.

“Overall, I was pleased with his performance and could not have asked for more from him in the last two years. He has fully committed himself to the sport and it has shown this year.”

In the opening round, Thomas was bested in a fall by Zayn Navarrete (46-6) of Comal Canyon at 3:27. Thomas then won a 14-3 major decision against Hunter Morris (34-11) of Princeton before being eliminated by Malachi McClenton (34-5) of Amarillo Caprock in a 10-4 decision.

Thomas’ performance at state wrapped up the second season of competition for the Aledo wrestling program. He joined Ansel Din-Mbuh, who reached state in 2022, in qualifying for the highest stage.

Also, Bryce Bohn was an alternate for state this season after finishing fifth in the 106 weight class at regionals.

“Both our teams (boys and girls) had an outstanding year. We have grown as a team and are making strides in the right direction,” Stockton said. “Last year we had eight qualify for regionals, this year we had 11. Also last year we had one state qualifier and this year we're up to two. It is small steps but exciting progress.

“We are losing some great senior boys, but have some that will be wrestling in their third year, so I am excited to see what they can do next year. As for our girls, we have all underclassmen so I look for them to come back stronger and better prepared for next year.”