Jeff Kraus - MCSHOF Inductee - 2025

Jeff Kraus, a 1983 Ludington High School graduate, built an undefeated 41-0 record in his senior season to become Ludington High School’s first ever State Champion wrestler, accumulating 29 pins along the way. Kraus wrestled in the 119-pound weight division and was the Orioles’ first three-time conference champion and the first to break the 100-career victory mark. He also established the single season record for wins (41) and consecutive victories (41). Kraus was 32-8 as a junior, 28-3 in his sophomore season and 10-18 as a freshman for an overall 111-29 career record. Kraus’ journey to his state championship started with a 14-0 win in his first state match, then he had two consecutive pins to reach the final match. Kraus’ opponent was Wade Tackett of Monroe Catholic Central. Tackett was 42-1 and Kraus entered the match at 40-0. With 30 seconds remaining in the match, Kraus was trailing 9-5. Kraus earned points with an escape and then a takedown. As time was expiring, he achieved a two-point near fall and a 10-9 decision to win the state championship.