By Shirley Shuman
Braxton grapplers scored 207 points to obtain their ninth straight regional championship Saturday. With 176.50 points, Roane was runner-up, and third place went to Moorefield at 151.50. Coach Sterling Beane explained that this championship was “totally a team effort” and added, “Everyone who won even one match contributed to our score. After the first round, we had few points because we didn’t get to wrestle much in that round. We gained ground as we went, and going into the championship round, we were ahead of Roane. The championship round gave us a secure win because we had three pins and a decision from our champions.”
Four Eagles won their weight classes to earn regional championships. Braxton also had one runner-up, and three finished fourth to qualify for the state tournament.
Braxton’s champions included Sailor McKinney (126), Luke Kelly (132), Paxton Smith (150), and Eliah Moore (175). Connor Tallamy was runner-up. The three placing fourth were Deklan Meadows (106), Nathaniel Thayer (120), Bradyn Morris (128).
Eight Eagle Grapplers will have a weekend off before heading to the State Wresting Tournament the following Thursday in Huntington.
