Austin wrestler Mitch Tebay is off to a 13-1 start to this season. He’s hoping to get to the state meet this year after being one win away from state last season. — Rocky Hulne/sports@austindailyherald.com

Its been nearly a year since Austin senior Mitch Tebay saw his chances at state fade away in an instant.

That moment is still on his mind.

Tebay wrestled in a Section 1AA ‘true second’ and state qualifying match last season but he was pinned in the second period. This season Tebay is hoping he finishes his season a lot stronger.

“I think about [last year] a lot. It’s a terrible feeling,” Tebay said. “I was winning and then I got caught. It was a rookie mistake. I’m definitely going to be ready this year and I’m planning on going to state this year.”

Tebay is off to a 13-1 start this season at 182 pounds and he’s light enough to wrestle at 171 if need be. Tebay’s only loss came on an overtime decision this year.

Austin interim head coach Jer Osgood said that Tebay has had a big impact on the Packers and Osgood knows he can put Tebay at several different spots in the lineup.

“Mitch is a definite leader by example within our wrestling room. He is one of our captains and has taken this role seriously,” Osgood said. “He approaches his matches with the intent to win every time and that confidence is evident. Mitch will do anything to help our team succeed.”

Tebay has focused on staying in the best shape possible this season. His motivation comes from his desire to get to the state meet.

“I can’t wait for the section tournament this year. We’re doing as much as we can to get ready,” Tebay said. “I’ve been lifting and running in the morning with the team. Practice has been a lot different this year. They’re pushing us hard.”

Osgood said he can see the hunger in Tebay as he works to improve this season.

“Mitch has proven to himself that he belongs with the state’s top wrestlers,” Osgood said. “Since day one of this season, Mitch has had one clear goal-to qualify and place at the state meet. I know that Mitch will continue to work to his potential from now until the section meet to make his goals a reality.”

The Packers will wrestle at Rochester Mayo Thursday at 7 p.m. Austin’s final home match this season will be against Faribault Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. The Section 1AAA meet will take place Feb. 21 and Feb. 22 in Mayo Civic Center in Rochester.