Zwiener knocks off No. 4 Elwood
Westfield’s Bo Zwiener circles to gain control over Medford’s Tommy Elwood. Zwiener defeated state No. 4-ranked Elwood by a 6-2 decision in Hayfield last week. Staff photo by Johnnie Phillips
Westfield sophomore Bo Zwiener is used to being labeled as an underdog when it comes to some of his biggest matchups on the mat, but underneath his calm and collected demeanor is an athlete who has gone toe to toe with some of the state’s best – and won.
Most recently, Zwiener took down state No. 4-ranked wrestler Tommy Elwood from Medford High School in a 6-2 decision, giving him the biggest ranked win of his career.
“I just like to fly under the radar. No one really knows about me sometimes… They kind of forget about me,” said Zwiener. “It’s kind of a punch in the mouth to them for doubting me I guess.”
While Zwiener may be able to fly under the radar vocally, his record speaks volumes for his pedigree as one of the state’s best young wrestlers.
As a sophomore for Westfield this season, Zwiener has accrued a 7-2 record and looks primed to repeat with a high win total this season after finishing 33-6 a year ago.
Zwiener now holds two wins over state-ranked opponents with his recent victory over Elwood adding to his previous win over No. 7-ranked Carson Petry a season ago.
However, according to Zwiener, the work is far from finished.
After qualifying for the state meet a season ago but not earning a spot on the podium, the sophomore has his sights on new heights.
“Last year I had kind of a bad day at the state tournament, which – oh well – it happens. This year I want to make it back and go out and get some wins.”
With his win over No. 4 Elwood, Zwiener has put himself in a good position to make a name for himself as a top contender in the state.
Also boding well for the sophomore are what he views as his secret weapons: his work ethic and his team.
“My coaches [Dave] Lassahn, Shane [Masching] and Karl Steckelberg have helped me so much since last year both on the feet and on bottom. Our team has some really great guys on it too, and we make each other better every day.”
Those looking to follow Zwiener’s ascent to the top of the state ranks can watch him take the mat next when Westfield travels to Grand Meadow on Friday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m.