Ben Krege's senior year was great fun, with Carmel becoming a competitive team and winning the County, the North Central Super 6, Zionsville Sectional, and the North Mont Regional. Ben wrestled his heart out and was County Champ, MIC Conference Champ, Sectional Champ, and in the regionals was second to Borta. In the semi-state ticket round, Ben drew Vinnie Corsaro. Coach Pendoski gave Ben hope – he is a great and inspirational leader - but Vinnie was too much and that was it.
I find myself grieving over the end of this phase of our lives together. I think about all of the ups and downs, the early mornings, the painful trips to CIA, the cutting weight, the nearly endless grind of lengthy tournaments, and I can’t imagine anyone missing this, but I will and I do and it is hard to accept it is over. I miss Ben going out on the mat and showing his courage. I will miss this elemental struggle of heart and will and skill between Ben and an opponent giving everything they’ve got to prevail. The finality is hard to bear.
But, I am also happy. Ben has had tremendous experiences and is looking forward to playing his music and pursuing his academic interests. He has learned many life lessons and become a good man. I am grateful to this sport and to the people who helped Ben, especially including his mom and sister, Coaches McVey, Simon, Kopnisky, Wegener, Pendoski, and many others, his teammates, his opponents, his training partners, and all the people who have encouraged and supported him.