FRANKLIN — Kaylen Thomas just missed making the state wrestling tournament last season. She wasn't about to miss her chance this year.

The Ravenwood High School senior wrestled her way into the Region 3 132-pound championship on Friday and clinched the tournament title with a 7-4 decision over Brentwood senior Erica Moore. And she's headed to the state stage this week at the Williamson County AgEXPO Center for the first time. 

"It feels amazing," said Thomas, who helped lead the Lady Raptors to a regional dual title late last month as well. "It just means all that hard work is finally paying off. I'm so excited." 

Thomas is one of 15 Williamson County girls headed to the state wrestling championships beginning Thursday in Franklin. The multi-sport senior battles Dakota Ward of Science Hill in her opening match and would likely have to get past top-seeded Haley Redmond of Gibbs in the semifinals of the 16-person bracket to get to the finals. Redmond is a two-time state medalist and was runner-up at 132 last year. 

Brody Faler, who coaches Thomas along with Geston Gordon, believes she can produce another podium finish. 

"She has shown she can be a state champion," Faler said. "She's a very smart competitor and, really, the sky's the limit.

"She's explosive and quick and she has all the physical tools."

Independence junior Brooklyn Long has, like Thomas, been working to return to the spotlight stage to wrap up some unfinished business.

The 138-pounder took third last year and is primed to wrestle for a state title this year. She enters as a favorite in her bracket. 

"I'm excited because I get another chance to go for first," she said. "I'm going to go in there confident. … I'm going to give it my all."