Idaho state wrestling: Post Falls, undefeated Ridge Lovett aim for another state title

Ridge Lovett has already pinned his way into Idaho wrestling lore for 5A power Post Falls.

But Lovett, a three-time state champion and Nebraska signee, has a chance Saturday to join an exclusive group of wrestlers who finished their high school careers without a loss.

If Lovett (145 pounds) can capture his fourth crown at the Idaho state championships at Holt Arena in Pocatello – an all-classifications event that begins Friday – he’d be the fourth 5A wrestler to graduate with an undefeated record.

The Trojans, who qualified 22 wrestlers to state, also return defending state champions Roddy Romero (98), Isaac Jessen (126), A.J. De La Rosa (138) and Tyler Morris.

Post Falls, which set an all-classification points record (338.5) at last year’s state tournament, is aiming for its fourth state title in five years.

Coeur d’Alene and Lake City bring many qualifiers to state and also figure to challenge for a team trophy.

CdA’s Payton Keough (132) is the No. 1 seed in his bracket. Lake City is led by top-seeded Owen Hughes (285) and Mahlon Clark (195).

Lakeland, which finished second last year, is bringing 13 wrestlers to the 4A portion of the state tournament.

The Hawks are led by top-ranked Sam Edelblute (128), who won a state title at 113 pounds last season.

In 3A, among Timberlake’s 13 qualifiers is second-seeded Isaiah Evans (132), who finished second last year at 120 pounds.