Junior Owen Klodowski over the weekend became the first Baldwin wrestler to qualify for the state competition since 2005.

Klodowski placed fourth in the weekend’s WPIAL competition at Canon-McMillan High School. The top four finishers move on to states, which start Thursday in Hershey.

The turning point of the weekend competition for Klodowski came during his placement match to go into the third and fourth matches.

“I chin-whipped my opponent and ended on top,” Klodowski said.

Qualifying for the state competition represents a big step forward in Klodowski’s wrestling career.

“It’s the first time I made it to states during my varsity career. It’s definitely an exciting time for me and my coaches,” Klodowski said.

Klodowski expressed his excitement for being the first Baldwin state qualifier since 2005.

“Having your name put down in the books is definitely cool,” Klodowski said.

The recognition is also good for the team, he said.

“It gets our name out there more with the WPIAL broadcasts,” Klodowski said.

Klodowski’s teammate, junior Keith Mincin, said he was proud of Klodowski.

“He was a standout. He couldn’t really do much better than he did,” Mincin said.

Klodowski said his goals go beyond simply reaching states.

“I want to end up placing at states either this year or next year – hopefully both,” Klodowski said.

Mincin and sophomore Ramil Islamov placed fifth and sixth place, respectively, at WPIALs.

Mincin had a successful day but was slightly disappointed with fifth place.

“I’m proud, but I could’ve done better. I took fifth, and the top four make states,” Mincin said.

Mincin was happy with the team’s performance this year.

“Overall I think the team this season did good, but we could’ve put a little more effort in for better results,” Mincin said.