Lewis Central wrestlers receive send-off for state tournament

Eight Titans wrestlers head to Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Lewis Central High School wrestling team, which qualified eight wrestlers for the state tournament, received a rousing send-off from family, friends, and local authorities as they departed for Des Moines on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Why it matters

High school wrestling is a point of pride for the Council Bluffs community, and the Lewis Central team's strong performance this season has generated excitement and support from local residents. The send-off ceremony highlights the community's investment in the success of their student-athletes.

The details

The eight Lewis Central wrestlers heading to the state tournament are Paxton Blanchard, Alex Graeve, Owen Duffek, Zander Manz, Weston Porter, Isaac Bates, Garrett Bills, and Mandius Volentine. They were accompanied by teammates Brody Burroughs and Jaxon Butcher. The wrestlers and their families gathered outside the high school, where they posed for photos holding caricatures of themselves before being escorted to the Wells Fargo Arena by local law enforcement and fire department vehicles.

  • The send-off ceremony took place on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the wrestlers prepared to depart for the state tournament.

The players

Lewis Central High School

A public high school located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, known for its strong wrestling program.

August Manz

The head coach of the Lewis Central wrestling team.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The send-off ceremony for the Lewis Central wrestlers highlights the strong community support and pride surrounding the team's success. The wrestlers' families and local authorities came together to show their enthusiasm and wish the team well as they compete at the state tournament, demonstrating the importance of high school sports in the Council Bluffs area.