UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, Gage Allen and Mady Deiter of C.M. Russell High School have captured prestigious state wrestling titles at the 2023 MHSA State Wrestling Meet in Billings. This urgent victory marks a significant achievement for both athletes, solidifying their places as top competitors in Montana.
In the Class AA 190-pound championship, Gage Allen showcased remarkable resilience, defending against multiple takedown attempts from Billings West’s Gabe Rosales. With just seconds remaining in regulation, Allen countered a critical move, securing a 3-2 overtime victory. “I was stressed to say the least,” Allen reflected on the nail-biting final moments. His determination to stay on his feet paid off, allowing him to clinch the title after a hard-fought battle.
Mady Deiter also delivered an impressive performance, winning her second consecutive state title in the girls’ 125-pound division. Finishing the season undefeated at 39-0, Deiter dominated the finals with a first-round pin against Fort Benton’s Etta Wicks. “I feel on top of the world,” said Deiter, who has remained a formidable force throughout the tournament, securing three first-round falls and a technical fall in the quarterfinals.
Both athletes have made significant personal comebacks this season. Allen, a junior, missed last year’s state tournament due to disqualification but has now transformed that disappointment into triumph. “It feels amazing,” he said, highlighting the emotional weight of this victory after a challenging year.
Deiter, now a two-time champion and three-time state finalist, is not resting on her laurels. “I keep my foot on the gas pedal, keep grinding, keep improving,” she emphasized, as she looks forward to her senior year and beyond.
This year’s success for C.M. Russell High is a testament to the hard work and dedication of both athletes, who have not only achieved personal milestones but have also contributed to the school’s legacy in wrestling. Their victories resonate with fans and inspire young wrestlers across the region.
As the celebrations continue for Allen and Deiter, attention now turns to their future endeavors in wrestling. Fans eagerly anticipate how these champions will perform in upcoming seasons, especially with collegiate opportunities on the horizon. Stay tuned for more updates on these remarkable athletes and their journeys in wrestling.
