GAINESVILLE — Koen Flowers placed fifth at the GIAA state wrestling tournament Feb. 3, the best finish among eight Tiftarea Academy wrestlers.

Flowers had the rare chance to beat an opponent twice at state, winning a 5-3 decision over First Presbyterian Day’s Colby Self, according to official brackets. Flowers made the semifinals with a 10-7 win over Self.

The Tiftarea senior was one win away from appearing in the championship, but ran into Stratford Academy’s Jamie Gibson. Gibson, who went on to win the 165-pound crown, won by pin against Flowers.

Every Panther on the wrestling team competed at the state meet, held at Riverside Prep. Temond Marcus (215) came within a match of placing. He pinned two opponents.

Brooks Cross (157), Caden Grier (175) and Colton Powell (190) all won matches. Grier’s was an upset win in the first round.

Others competing were Eli Stevens (144), Sam Faircloth (150) and Kaiden Richardson (285).