STATE CHAMPION!

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

Unity's Lexi Ritchie stands at the top of the podium after defeating Richwood's Jaida Johnson (on her right) for the 155-pound title at the inaugural IHSA Girls' Wrestling State Finals on Saturday. Ritchie carved out a 10-8 decision over Johnson to not only become the first female wrestler in the state to earn the title at that weight class but also Champaign County's first female high school state wrestling champion. She finished her sophomore season with a 23-9 record on Saturday. On her left on the podium is bronze medal winner Valeria Rodriguez from Schaumburg.