On Wednesday, February 6, Earl Blake, along with hundreds of other athletes across the nation, signed a National Letter of Intent, to attend his college of choice and make his mark on wrestling. Blake decided to further his academic and wrestling career at Kent State University in Ohio.

There he will study in the medical field to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). KSU athletics compete in the Division I (NCAA) and the Mid-American Conference (MAC) East Division.

Blake is a four-year varsity athlete. As a freshman, Blake was the runner-up in the 3A west state championship. Not satisfied, Blake came back his sophomore and junior years to win and then defend the state title. Blake hopes to end his journey as a three-time state champion.

Blake is one of the most successful and talented wrestlers Linganore’s program has ever had. He has earned a record of 147 wins, with only 12 losses. Starting the sport at a young age, Blake hopes to one day win a national title at the collegiate level.

Blake’s mother, Jessica Blake said, “Coming up, Earl wasn’t always the best wrestler, but he was determined and willing to put in the work to get better.”

Blake is also a phenomenal leader. He is a three-year captain. Teammates in all grades look to Blake as a mentor.

“He is one of the greatest leaders that I have ever coached in 17 years,” said Blake’s coach, Ben Arneson, himself a graduate of the LHS wrestling program.

Blake led the Lancer wrestling team to the dual meet state final but came up just one point shy of victory.