There were 26 grapplers up for the honor that we had as nominees for the 2019-20 season. We have effectively narrowed the list down to our 5 finalists for the honors, including a pair from Lumpkin. Last year’s Wrestler of the Year was Ryan Hurd, who graduated last season from Jefferson.

*NOTE: Records may be incomplete, but per GHSA following traditionals tournament

WRESTLER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Elijah Burns (Commerce JR)

WEIGHT CLASS: 195 LBS
RECORD: 30-1
STATE PLACEMENT: 1A State Champion
AREA PLACEMENT: Area Champion
NOTES: Back-to-Back State Champion

Sam Irwin (Lumpkin SR)

WEIGHT CLASS: 182 LBS
RECORD: 72-2
STATE PLACEMENT: 3A State Champion
AREA PLACEMENT: Area Champion
NOTES: Back-to-Back State Champion

Athena Malek (Stephens JR)

WEIGHT CLASS: 102 LBS (Girls)
RECORD: 38-9
STATE PLACEMENT: 4A State Champion
AREA PLACEMENT: Area Champion
NOTES: N/A

Tyson Thurmond (Jefferson JR)

WEIGHT CLASS: 120 LBS
RECORD: 8-1 (incomplete record)
STATE PLACEMENT: 3A State Runner-Up
AREA PLACEMENT: Area Champion
NOTES: Won State Title as Sophomore

Nolan Wheeler (Lumpkin SR)

WEIGHT CLASS: 160 LBS
RECORD: 61-4
STATE PLACEMENT: 3A State Champion
AREA PLACEMENT: Area Champion
NOTES: 3-Peat State Champion