Thunder Ridge sophomore Kunsaitas claims first state title, says he can ‘get 2 more’

IDAHO FALLS — The dream of winning a state wrestling championship began in eighth grade for Thunder Ridge High School sophomore Onyx Kunsaitas.

That was the first time he qualified for a meet as massive as states.

“I made it to the middle school state finals and I just loved the environment,” he said, adding about reaching the same level in high school, “I just knew that I could make it.”

Two years later, he has manifested that dream, claiming the 6A 144-pound state title at last week’s Idaho High School Wrestling State Championships.

Kunsaitas said after the match that he has been putting in work every day with “no rest, waiting for this moment.”

“I’m so happy,” he said.

He joined Shauna Anderson as Thunder Ridge’s two state wrestling champs.

Kunsaitas led the match in scoring, 4-3, after one round, before grabbing a 7-3 advantage in the second. His opponent, Meridians Ryan Amoureux, attempted a comeback in the second, scoring four points. But Kunsaitas sealed the victory — and achieved his goal — with a 12-7 final score.

Asked how many more state championship medals he believes he is capable of putting on his personal medal display, Kunsaitas was decisive.

“I think I can put two more,” he said. “I think so.”