Thursday morning, members and coaches of the varsity wrestling team gathered in the Oakton Lobby to send senior Vaughn Monreal-Berner off to state.

Monreal-Berner is going to state for the first time in his career here at West, and he doesn’t intend to stop there.

“I’m hoping to place [at state] and win if possible.  It’s been a goal for four years and I’ve finally made it, but it’s not enough.  I won’t be happy until I’m on the podium,” Monreal-Berner said.

Monreal-Berner is supported by his teammates, like junior Brian Knorr.

“He’s a good captain, a good teammate, and a good wrestler,” Knorr said.

Coach Anthony Genovisi said he is thrilled with Monreal-Berner’s performance.

“It’s a goal we always have, and it’s a good feeling to send kids to state.  You want to see a lot of kids go, and he’s been doing a good job.  You want to see him be successful down there,” Genovisi said.

The tournament is being held Feb. 14-16 at Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois.