Randolph-Henry Statesmen claim back-to-back wrestling titles
Published 10:38 pm Monday, February 10, 2025
- The Randolph-Henry wrestling team and coaching staff pose after winning the District title for the second straight year.
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Last year, it wasn’t expected. In fact, when the Randolph-Henry Statesmen secured the district high school wrestling championship in 2024, it was the first time in more than two decades. It was the first time as a head coach for Chris Weatherford, it was the first time competing for some of the team members. But now in 2025, things are a bit different. Now the team has done it again, claiming back to back James River District championships.
But the Statesmen didn’t just secure a district title this time around. In the 2025 District Tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 5, six of the Statesmen won individual titles in their respective weight classes. Noah Norwood won in the 106 lb. class, David Terrones-Lara won in the 132 lb. class, Randy Adams won in the 150 lb. class, Jackson Ruppel-Lee won in the 165 lb. class, Patrick Collins won in the 175 lb. class and it was Tre Wheeler winning in the 285 lb. class. For Ruppel-Lee and Wheeler, this was also their second year being honored at the district level. Both wrestlers were named to the All-District team in 2024. Now one year later, they’re holding up the titles for their weight classes.
And those weren’t the only awards Randolph-Henry collected at the district tournament. Coach Chris Weatherford was named Coach of the Year, sharing the award with Coach Sherry Green of Amelia.
As part of the celebration after winning the title, the Statesmen also paid tribute to the senior members on the team. That includes Tre Wheeler, Sam Ricardo, Cody Doran, Landon Jackson, David Terrones-Lara and James White. Each was recognized for their hard work and contributions to the program.
“Congratulations to the entire team on another outstanding season!” said Randolph-Henry Principal Erin Davis. “Way to go, Statesmen!”
What’s next for the Randolph-Henry Statesmen?
With the district trophy in hand, now the Statesmen work on the next step. First comes regionals. In order to qualify for the state competition, a wrestler has to place in the top three at the regional level.
