Unfortunately, those expectations went unrealized but the Kamiak wrestling team still had one of the best seasons ever in the program's 17-year history.

"Looking back, while still disappointed with what happened at the state tournament, we still accomplished a lot this year," second year head coach Tracy Regan said.  "League champs for the second time in three years, and for it to be decided in the last match against Edmonds-Woodway(the defending league champions) in front of 700 people is pretty good."

Nate Regan, after winning his first round match, faced Brandon Riehle, the eventual state champion. 

Kamiak senior Nate Regan struggles to bring down his opponent at the state wrestling tournament this weekend in Tacoma. The Knights had high hopes coming into state, but struggled early on.

Photo courtesy of Laurie Green

After dropping that match, he lost to Ivan Mukomol, who went on to take the third place medal.

Linari's task wasn't any easier.  After suffering a sprained knee at the district tournament, he battled back, qualifying for state despite the fact that his knee was not at full strength. 

Linari first lost to Davey Browne from Gig Harbor, who eventually took fourth place, then lost to Dylan Evanger of Graham-Kapowsin.

Coach Regan said he will look back at this season and think only fond memories, especially of this senior class, whom he has known for a long time, and he looks forward to seeing what they will all accomplish later in life. 

But, as with almost all coaches, Regan has his eye on the future as well.

"I look forward to continually building this program,” he said.  “We're going to have a few holes next year, but we should be alright.  The youth and middle school programs are doing a great job, and I look forward to coaching those kids once they get to the high school level."

Nate Regan will leave Kamiak as its winningest varsity wrestler, with 115 wins, 73 of which came by pin, also a school record.

Mariner senior Gary Kroshko finished his high school career on a high note, taking seventh place at the state tournament in the 189-lb weight class.