For seniors Cameron Cruz, Luke Reid, and Ben Fedorchak, the IHSAA Semi-State represents another important hurdle in a four-year journey that has defined their high school careers. To reach the State Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, each wrestler must navigate one of the toughest Semi-State brackets in Indiana. In the IHSAA format, a wrestler must win their first two matches on Saturday ("the ticket round") to secure a top-four finish and a spot in the state tournament. --The Viking Wrestlers: Breakdown-- LUKE REID - 144 lbs (29-2) Reid enters the weekend as one of the most decorated wrestlers in the region. A returning state medalist who finished 4th in the state at 144 pounds last year and was a state qualifier at 138 pounds in 2024, Reid has been a model of consistency for Coach Jason Cook and the Vikings. Known for his high-scoring technical prowess and relentless pace, Reid has spent much of his senior season ranked among the top 3 in the state. For him, Saturday isn't just about qualifying; it’s about positioning himself for another podium run in Indianapolis. BEN FEDORCHAK - 190 lbs (33-10) Fedorchak has shown incredible growth over his four years, evolving into a powerhouse in the upper weights. After a strong showing at Regionals, where he battled through a tough bracket to secure his spot, Fedorchak brings his explosive style to the 190-pound class. He was a Semi-State qualifier last season, falling just short in the ticket round. This year, the veteran senior looks to use that experience to flip the script and punch his first ticket to State. CAMERON CRUZ - 138 lbs (29-6) Cruz rounds out the senior trio, bringing speed and agility to the mat. Throughout his career, Cruz has been reliable for the Viking lineup. His path through the East Chicago Semi-State will require him to navigate a field deep with talent from the Duneland and Northwest Crossroads conferences and likely opponents from Lafayette and South Bend. For Cruz, Saturday is the ultimate opportunity to leave everything on the mat as he seeks a birth in the State meet. --What’s at Stake-- The East Chicago Semi-State is notoriously tough, often referred to by coaches as "The Meatgrinder." It features perennial powerhouses from across The Region and state hopefuls from Lafayette to South Bend, meaning every match will be a battle. --Tournament Details-- What: IHSAA Wrestling Semi-State Where: East Chicago Central High School When: Saturday, February 14, 2026 Time: Wrestling begins at 9:00 AM CST Advancement: Top 4 finishers in each weight class advance to the State Finals. Best of luck to these three seniors, who look to extend their careers for one more week and cement their legacy in the Viking history books. 🟢⚪️