Sunday, February 17, 2008
BELOIT — Howland High’s Kyle Leek knew something wasn’t quite right Saturday night when his finals opponent showed up for the Parade of Champions wearing jeans and a sweatshirt.
Leek (28-6), who advanced to the 125-pound sectional championship match at West Branch, expected to take on Minerva’s Stephen Becker (30-3) in what might have been a very competitive match.
Instead, all Leek had to do for his sectional title was show up. Despite the win, he was less than thrilled with how things went down.
“I’d rather wrestle,” said Leek. “It’s almost like you don’t deserve it if you don’t earn it. I don’t like it just given to me like that. I didn’t find out I wouldn’t have to wrestle until the Parade of Champions, but when I knew I just thought at least I don’t have to warm up. I guess winning will help me for districts next week.”