In Featured Match Senior Julian Chlebove Takes Out Sam Hillegas in 132 Pound State Semifinals

Hershey, PA – All eyes were on mat #3 inside the GIANT Center as two top ten ranked wrestlers in the Nation went at it in the most anticipated meeting of the Class 3A State Semifinals. Both Sammy Hillegas and Julian Chlebove have two State Championships to their names and have a combined career record of (243-7).

The senior Chlebove, who was out all of last season for disciplinary reasons, came in ranked #8 in the Nation by Flo Wrestling while Hillegas was 6th. It was the first time these two faced off in high school competition.

Both wrestlers came out swinging in a heated exchange during the first period. Despite a wild scramble – no points were scored after two minutes of action. After the first period Julian stated he felt a little worn down.

“After the first, I was kind of dead and I don’t know why. My legs, I couldn’t move them and my mouth was all dry. I had to overcome that.”

To start the second period Chlebove, an Arizona State recruit, took bottom allowing Hillegas to go into his most comfortable position. The Konkrete Kid wasn’t overly concerned.

“I knew I could get out and I was able to get to my feet and he returned me. Once he put that leg in I could feel he was high on the right side and so I swam my arm through and got the reversal.”

It was a critical two point reversal at the 45 second mark as Julian went to work on top and pounded Hillegas to the mat preventing him from getting up off his stomach as the period came to a close. In the third period Hillegas took bottom in need of points.

Chlebove wouldn’t allow it – riding hard for over 80 seconds and ending up in a crab ride position as Hillegas worked for a much needed reversal.

“I really thought I could turn him. I love the top position – it’s honestly probably my best position, as well.”

With Hillegas threatening – Chlebove was smart by recognizing the vulnerable position and relenting the escape rather than reversal. With the match now 2-1 in favor of Chlebove – there were 15 ticks left on the clock as Hillegas was in desperation mode.

Chlebove fought off attempts from Hillegas and held on for the win.

He now finds himself in his third state finals appearance and a shot at his third title. He will take on District XI foe Kenny Herrmann of BECAHI, who he has taken on six times already this year – winning all of the meetings.

“I know he’s not coming in here tonight thinking he’s going to lose. He wants a state title too. We are going to go at it – it’s going to be fun.”