On Saturday, Derby wrestlers Amara Ehsa and Jayden Grijalva won state championships. For Ehsa this is her 3rd straight year winning state.

Grijavla being in weight class 106, and Ehsa 105 both wrestlers went in with high hopes. Placing was the goal but both exceeded expectations.

“I was feeling nervous, super nervous, but I couldn’t lose, it was now or never and it was time to make history,” Ehsa said.

Wrestling is one of the hardest mental sports, having to be consistent with multiple factors throughout the season. Keeping a good mindset is crucial to having confidence in yourself.

“Why would I want to be a two time state champion when I can be a three time state champion,” Ehsa said.

Backing it up on the mats, Grijalva and Ehsa edged out the competition and brough home some hardware for Derby.