Watched Derek Feist wrestle - he is FAR better than his record would indicate. SJA wrestles many tough schools so that Ryne has some competition (just kidding Will - seems to be poke Cokely day so I'm joining in!)
Again, SJA's schedule seems more challenging compared to many other schools, thus Mr. Feist perhaps had more quality losses, whatever.
If a kid goes to state with a losing record under these circumstances it's easier to understand. If they go because the bracket is empty, it does seem less fair to the kids that fought through a full bracket (or close to it) to win the honor. I've had a wrestler tell me that sometimes 3rd is better than 2nd because you have to win to get 3rd. If you don't even have to win - well, whatever. Kid still put in a season on the mat - not their fault the system is the way it is.