On Wednesday, February 11 two young men will be honored for their time on the mat as their season as high school wrestlers comes to a close.
Gaige Johnson and Rocky Monroe are the sole seniors of the team of nearly 20 to grace the mats of Bonners Ferry High School for the 2026 season.
At 5:45 tomorrow evening, just before the lights go down, Gaige and Rocky along with their families will take their place on the mat in front of friends, family and fans to be honored for their time as Bonners Ferry Badgers.
Gaige Johnson began his wrestling career at age five with the Bonners Ferry Wrestling Club. He competed in freestyle, folkstyle, and Greco-Roman across Idaho, Washington, and Montana.
Gaige has been a varsity wrestler all four years of high school and was named team captain this year.
According to his mom, Megan, “Gaige is known for perseverance, resilience, and a true “no-quit” attitude.” Gaige lives by the motto, “Once a wrestler, always a wrestler!”
“Gaige has never been one to take the easy road.” His parents, Megan and Nick say, “Wrestling taught him grit, discipline, and resilience; all lessons that will carry him through life. We are incredibly proud of his commitment, leadership, and the young man he has become both on and off the mat.”
“Gaige is always willing to take someone under his wing.” Coach Puckett says, “Gaige had a great season. He won two tournaments for the Badgers this season and he definitely does things his own way. He is unorthodox and crafty, but that’s how he beats his opponents. I love Gaige. He’s a great kid and a great wrestler.”
Gaige graduated a semester early and is now pursuing training to become an electrical lineman.
