John Robben is a senior from McPherson High School. Robben is a member of the wrestling team and wrestles in the 120-pound weight class this year. Last year as a junior, Robben qualified for the state tournament. This year Robben would like to not only qualify for the state tournament, but also place at the state tournament. McPherson High School is part of class 4A, and State will be held in late February in Salina for this class.
The goal Robben and the team set this year to strive for is to become the league champions. McPherson is part of the AVCTL Division three and competes against teams like Augusta, Buhler, Circle, Mulvane, and Winfield. For last year’s league, Robben earned 2nd team all-league honors in the 106-pound weight class.
This season Robben has been looking forward to the regional tournament the most. “If you place at Regionals, you go to state and have a chance to place against the best kids around.” Qualifying for the state tournament last year was a big achievement for Robben. Unlike most wrestlers who started when they were young on a club team, Robben started wrestling in seventh grade. “I never thought I would have a chance at state.”
Robben would like to continue to wrestle at the colligate level after high school graduation this coming spring, but he is currently undecided on where to attend college. Robben has plans to finish earning a welding certificate. Robben does not participate in any sports other than wrestling.
