Finally, Falls crowns a state champion
by Steve Ottman Falls News Correspondent
MADISON – The wait is over.
Sheboygan Falls Falcons wrestling head coach Fred Brown now has a state champion.
With the final seconds of the 152-pound championship match for Falls senior Ben Chappa winding down, Brown clenched his fists in the air with excitement as the referee raised his champion’s hand.
In Brown’s eight years of coaching, he has brought many wrestlers to the WIAA individual championships, 20 in the last four seasons to be exact.
During that time, a few have medalled, but none of the wrestlers have captured a coveted a state title. Saturday night that ultimate goal was achieved, much to Brown’s satisfaction.
“Anytime you bring back a champion, it’s a sense of accomplishment,” said Brown. “It’s a great feeling.
Chappa has worked extremely hard and it didn’t end with disappointment,” he said. “I’m so happy for him. He has been a pleasure to coach.”
There is a second side to this story. The Falcon coach has had many well wishers, including former coaches Jerome Robers, Cal Opperman, Tom Brown, wrestling alumni and 1986 state champion Jerry Michael, who calls Brown every year with the same question, “Is this the year?”
Now Brown can put Michael’s mind at ease. The wait is over.
