Wrestlers compete at Halstead

By NICHOLAS KIMBALL

Staff writer

Hillsboro and Marion wrestling teams ventured to Halstead for girls’ and boys’ events this weekend.

On Friday, the Hillsboro girls placed 16th out of 21 while Marion’s girls placed 20th.

“Cadence Bialek and Morgan Dixon competed hard but were not able to make the podium for the evening,” Marion coach Tyler McMichael said.

Hillsboro’s Kenzlie Friesen placed fourth at 125 pounds.

On Saturday, for the boys, Hillsboro placed 15th out of 19 and Marion placed 18th.

“It was a bit of a rough weekend for the Warrior wrestlers, but I am hoping we can turn it around in the coming weeks,” McMichael said.

The Warriors took only two boys to the event, Sam Rziha and Brody Coleman. Rziha had to back out of the tournament early for undisclosed reasons. Coleman went on to place third in his division.

Hillsboro freshman Rustin Ayres finished fourth at 106 pounds, and sophomore Phoenix Fickes placed sixth at 157 pounds.

“Due to the level of competition and the opportunity to see some different teams this past two weekends, we are getting a good look at where we are and things we need to improve on,” Hillsboro coach Scott O’Hare said. “Wins, losses, and final team scores over the two days would suggest an unsuccessful event for both teams. However, with this team, we are focused on progress and the process over the outcomes.

“We are definitely proud of the three young wrestlers that earned medals at Halstead.

Hillsboro and Marion will travel to Eureka Saturday for their next matchups of the season.