By: Ross Martin
In four years, Chase Stegall has experienced the full gamut of emotions in a search for a state title.
The senior standout for Northwest (Cedar Hill) burst onto the scene as a freshman, bouncing back from a first round loss in the Class 4 Missouri State Wrestling Championships to win five straight and place third at 170. As a sophomore, he bounced back from a quarterfinal loss to two-time state champion and three-time finalist Devin Winston of Park Hill but ultimately ended up a spot lower in fourth at 182.
Last year, Stegall finally reached a state final at 195 but lost 3-1 in a rematch with Winston. Stegall projects at either 195 or 220 and will be an unquestioned contender to win his first state title and add to Northwest’s solid tradition.
“We have been blessed with a great winning tradition out here at Northwest,” Northwest coaches Ron and Bob Wilhelm said. “The expectation is that we will continue that legacy this season and make both our school and our community proud.”