Chieftain qualifies for wrestling state tourney
Posted on 02/21/2019
Isaiah Smith(SPS) - Isaiah Smith is still wrestling, and he didn’t expect to be.

“It feels good.”

The freshman was the lone Sapulpa Chieftain still standing after the 6A East Regional in Jenks last week.

He lost his first match and with a state qualification berth at stake, he had to win his second match against an opponent he’d beaten earlier in the season.

“He went out there trying to go to state, too,” he said.

After the full three periods, Isaiah found himself on top with a 5-3 score and a spot in the state championships in Oklahoma City on Feb. 22 and 23.

“It felt really great, especially as a freshman,” said Isaiah. “I just expected like to lose the first day but I went all the way to the second, and on that podium.”

Isaiah Smith on podium

His first-round matchup in the 113 division is against a wrestler from Westmoore.

While Isaiah is taking the “one match at a time” approach to the state tournament, he understands he’ll be a leader for the team next year despite how this season ends.

“I’m going to lead all the way to dual state.”

2019 State Wrestling Tournament brackets. Isaiah is wrestling in 6A-113. His bracket is on the fourth page.