Sweet success hits K-M

It’s not often that a community is able to soak up the limelight of a sports state championship. But this week Kasson and Mantorville are celebrating the capturing of a state wrestling title. 
While many schools may only get such an opportunity once, this is actually the second time in four years that the Minnesota Class 2A Title is coming home to K-M. Such a feat is nothing short of miraculous and extraordinary. 
I remember growing up in a community about half the size of Mantorville. I worked at the local newspaper throughout my high school years. And I still remember how cheated I felt by the lack of a state title coming home to my school. 
While covering high school sports throughout my entire high school years, I always hoped for one of our sports teams to at least get to a state tournament so I could cover it for the newspaper. Much to my disappointment, it never happened. We got close once, but being oh so close just didn’t cut for me.
That’s why it came with great pleasure this past week for me to see the KoMets capture the state title by defeating Foley 37-21. There is nothing greater to boost the spirits of teenage athletes than winning a state championship. 
Next week the staff at the Independent is planning something a little special for the KoMet wrestlers. We are going to publish a special souvenir edition commemorating the honor of K-M pulling off a perfect season and casting this area into positive statewide attention. Our staff will be working all this week on pinning down this special section.
Sports are important in any community, and especially in small towns like Kasson and Mantorville. People love a winning team. And this year’s KoMets team couldn’t have been more perfect by winning every match and bringing home the state champion title. Such an honor gives folks bragging rights and incredible pride in their community.