Jeff Chaney
Sports Scene
Zehlin Storr has only one more step up the podium to realize his dream of being a state champion.
The Leslie High School junior 135-pounder took third as a freshman and was runner-up last year. He is heading into this year’s Division 3 finals at The Palace of Auburn Hills February 28 through March 2 as a favorite to win his weight class.
Storr says what motivates him this year is the memory of being so close last year as a runner-up.
“At the time I was crushed,” Storr said. “I had to take pictures while I was crying; it was a horrible day. But I have used that as motivation. When I don’t feel like practicing, I remember back to that match.”
That match was a 5-4 loss to Richmond’s Devin Skatzka – a match that Storr wrestled with an injured ankle.
“A lot people that know him say he won’t lose this year,” said Lance Storr, Zehlin’s father. “I think he lost last year because he injured his ankle in the semifinals and limped out for the finals. He majored that kid [Skatzka] the week before, and it was disappointing for him. You never know, it was just bad timing.”
So far this year, Storr has been healthy and on a mission, posting a 55-0 record heading into the finals.
“He has as good a chance of winning as any,” Leslie coach Todd Stern said. “He has been wrestling well all year. He is in good shape and motivated.
“He had a frustrating loss in the finals last year,” he added. “He had a lead and was taken down with 10 seconds to go and lost.”
Storr says at this point of the season, it’s more mental than physical. He knows everybody is capable of giving him his first loss and stopping his dream. “You have to keep your head in the game the whole time. You can’t get nervous. You have to stay focused. It’s a sprint to the finish line now.”
It could be a good weekend for the Storr household, as Zehlin Storr’s little brother Kanen Storr is 54-0 and one of the favorites to win the 103-pound weight class.
It’s been a lot more fun than it was previous years, I love having him on team,” Zehlin Storr said. “He’s having a great season.”