Six local wrestlers advanced to the FHSAA State Championships in Kissimmee last week, with two finishing among the top 10 in Florida in their respective weight classes. Key West’s Allens Alexandre was the Keys’ best finisher, winning three matches to place him in the FHSAA 1A state championship match against the very same athlete who defeated him at regionals one week prior. Alexandre went 3-1 in the tournament, with his only loss being the title match. Earning a silver medal for his efforts to close his junior campaign, Alexandre has big plans for his senior season.
Also medaling was sophomore Gavin Matheis of Coral Shores. Matheis wrestled his way to three wins and two losses at states, finishing in seventh place in the 132-pound weight class. Like Alexandre, Matheis is not finished yet and has all the makings to add to his medal collection in 2027 and 2028.
Key West’s Michael Guzman capped off his high school career on the biggest stage in prep wrestling. The senior, who competes at 165 pounds, went 0-2 in Kissimmee after a strong season with the Conchs.
Senior Sebastian McCoy of Coral Shores had one win and two losses at states, finishing his career with the Hurricanes at the highest level. McCoy’s dominance in the 120-pound weight class made him one of the program’s best athletes.
Fellow Hurricane Sterling Keefe, a junior, entered states as the Region 4 champ in the 157-pound class. Keefe was 0-2 at states, but his trip to the big show undoubtedly provided valuable experience as he heads into his senior campaign.
Lady Conch Maria Holushko, the Keys’ lone female qualifier, held her own in a pair of matches, lasting until late in the third period in each. The sophomore’s steady improvement makes it very likely she will return to Kissimmee in the coming seasons.
