Pete breaks school record, Smith records 100th win
Laurel senior wrestlers Stanley Pete and Connor Smith each reached a milestone at the Canal Classic last weekend in Middletown. Pete set the school record for career wins while Smith earned his 100th career win.
Pete earned career win number 123 during the tournament to break the school record.
“It’s a surreal feeling. Last year I realized it was a possibility,” said Pete. “It’s something I’ll probably never forget.”
Pete appreciates all the support he has received from the community as well as his friends and family.
“It’s a small town. Everybody roots for you and everybody’s got your back. It’s like a family,” Pete said.
With this milestone out of the way, Stanley’s lone goal is winning a state title.
Smith entered the season 12 wins away from 100 wins. The opportunity to pick up the 100th win was delated by winter weather. “Every time the snow came it got pushed back,” said Smith. “I was real nervous going into it. I felt good after getting it.”
Head coach Zach Toadvine helped Smith focus during the tournament. “He said ‘stay calm, it’s a regular match’,” Smith said.
Smith and Pete went into the tournament with their milestones on the horizon.
“We knew going in were going to get it,” said Smith. “We just kept our heads up high and pushed through it.”
Now that Smith reached 100 wins, he has an accomplishment he can always look back on.
“It’s something only 10 people in Laurel have done. I love being part of that history,” Smith said.
“It’s something he’s (Smith) worked hard to get, so I’m proud of him,” said Pete.