Minerva senior Hunter Dietrich left everything on the mat in the final match of his high school wrestling career, securing a fifth-place finish at the OHSAA state tournament with a 12-8 victory over West Geauga’s Brian Denamen in the 165-pound division.
The moment was bittersweet for Dietrich, who has dedicated 12 years to the sport and finished his career with an impressive 151-39 record.
“It was an emotional match,” Dietrich said. “After all these years, all the hard work, it’s tough knowing this is the last time I’ll wrestle for Minerva. But I wanted to finish strong and not end on a loss.”
Earlier in the day, Dietrich fell in the consolation semifinals to Beaver Local’s Evan Ours, but he rebounded with a determined effort in his final match to earn a spot on the podium.
“Perseverance is everything in wrestling,” he said. “You have to push through losses and come back stronger. That’s what I tried to do today.”
Dietrich is now a three-time state placer, a feat that speaks to both his talent and dedication. But beyond personal accolades, he credits the brotherhood of Minerva wrestling and the unwavering support of the Minerva community for helping him reach this point.
“Our community is incredible,” he said. “Hearing them cheer us on at state, knowing they’re behind us—it means everything. Wrestling at Minerva is about more than just competing; it’s about family.”
As he looks ahead to his next steps, Dietrich isn’t entirely sure what the future holds. But one thing is certain—his legacy at Minerva is secure.
“I’ve given this sport everything I have,” he said. “Whatever comes next, I know wrestling has shaped me into the person I am today.”
