CLEARFIELD – It was an epic year for Clearfield and DuBois athletes who won state titles in wrestling, swimming and air rifle competitions.
On Tuesday the Clearfield County Commissioners presented certificates to wrestler Luke McGonigal and swimmers, Luke and Paige Mikesell and Chase Bietz.
McGonigal dominated his 195-pound weight class at the PIAA Class AAA wrestling championships in Hershey in March.
McGonigal’s opponent in the state title bout was State College’s Cole Urbas. Urbas handed him a 1-0 loss, his first of the season, the week before in the Northwest Regional Tournament finals.
McGonigal sought his revenge quick, pinning Urbas in 1:37 for the state gold. He became Clearfield’s 41st state champion in wrestling and the fourth for head coach Jeff Aveni.
McGonigal finished his wrestling career with a 135 wins and 21 losses. He shares second place on Clearfield wrestling’s all-time wins list with former Bison heavyweight Sean Owen.
Paige Mikesell competed in the 100 fly at the PIAA Championships at Bucknell University. Her gold medal performance was the first in program history for Clearfield girls’ swimming.
The commissioners also recognized Abigail Zeitler of DuBois, who won a state air rifle competition this year. Zeitler was unable to attend the board meeting, however.
Commissioner Mark B. McCracken said that these students began their athletic careers when they were all very young and they have put in years of hard work.
“We are all very proud of your accomplishments as athletes and as students,” added Commissioner John A. Sobel, chair. “Clearfield is a county of champions.
“We want you all to know that you bring a lot of pride not only to your school and community, but also to our county.”
