Dineen earns third state wrestling title
Photo by Tammie Olson
Benson senior Thomas Dineen secured his spot in the Benson wrestling record books after securing his third consecutive state title Saturday, March 4, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul.
“Walking off that mat when I held up the three, I looked at my fans and thought, ‘I did it,’” Dineen told the West Central Tribune.
Dineen achieved a goal that he set at the beginning of this season, his third state championship.
“The goal was achieved! I am so grateful for everyone who came to support, and coach me,” Dineen said. “Benson showed out this week!”
Benson had five rows of people in the stands inked in yellow-and-maroon cheering on Dineen.
“There were probably close to 150 Benson fans in the stands Saturday night,” Benson coach Scott Thompson said. “It was so cool to see a massive group of gold shirts go nuts when Tommy sealed number three. There was a group of teammates that ripped off their shirts and had ‘Tommy X3’ painted on their chests. The support this young man has received from the community and the Benson wrestling family is unreal, I’m so proud to be a part of all of it.”
“That will always hold a special place in my heart,” Dineen added. “I feel I wrestled well and I am more than happy with the outcome.”
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