OVAC Wrestling Championship 2019 by John McCabe

66th Annual OVAC Ron Mauck

Wrestling Tournament Preview

A supplement to The Times Leader

January 17-19 WesBanco Arena

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 2

66th annual OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament

ready to get under way Thursday night By KIM NORTH Times Leader Sports Writer

WHEELING — The 66th annual OVAC Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament will get under way Thursday night inside WesBanco Arena. The three-day event will conclude with Saturday night’s championship finals. Olympic-style opening ceremonies kick things off at 6, with wrestling action to begin 30 minutes later on 8 mats. According to Tournament Director Dan Doyle, this year’s event may be the most wide-open in years. Ever since Parkersburg South joined the bi-state conference nine years ago, the Wood County Patriots have won the team title eight times, including the last five years. The only time they didn’t

prevail was when Steubenville led the way in 2013. “It hasn’t been this wide open for quite some time,” Doyle said during Sunday night’s press conference at Generations Restaurant. “It’s shaping up to be a pretty good tournament.” In addition to Parkersburg South and Steubenville, Beaver Local will make some noise with a youthful squad, while Wheeling Park and John Marshall should be in the hunt. “It will all come down to which team wrestles its best over the three days,” Doyle noted. “It should be an outstanding weekend of wrestling for fans in the Ohio Valley.” Approximately 850 bouts will be run off before the last buzzer on Saturday night is sounded. The tournament will bring to the WesBanco Arena

some 500 matmen from 43 high schools. However, only 14 of these will be crowned as champions at Saturday evening’s final session. Thursday night’s opening ceremony is at 6, followed by wrestling at 6:30. Friday’s opening session begins at noon and highlights second-round matches.

Quarterfinals and consolation matches are on tap for Friday night, starting at 6. On Saturday, semifinals and consolations get under way at noon. with the final ceremonies begin at 6. All pre-tournament festivities will begin at 6 on Saturday. The championship matches along with bouts to de-

What’s Inside?

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termine third-, fifth-, and seventh-places will begin at 6:30 on Saturday. Four mats will be in use Saturday, but eight mats will be utilized at the various earlier sessions to keep the tournament moving at a rapid pace. An added feature to the standout competition has been a program initiated by the Ohio Valley Wrestling Coaches Association to honor past conference champions observing their 25th anniversary. This year the 1994 tournament champions will be honored. The 1994 champions and the coach of the 1994 team champions will be recognized before Saturday’s finals and will be seated in a special area on the main floor. Special presentations: the Director’s Award and the Mr. Mat Award, annually

given to an individual who has made valuable contributions to the sport in the Ohio Valley will be presented Saturday before the championship finals; varsity, varsity assistant, and Junior High Coach of the Year, and the Larry Deaton Official of the Year awards will be presented Thursday evening. The Syd Stoltz Tournament Worker and the Program Cover Recognition awards will be presented Friday evening. The Project Best Pear Sadler Team Sportsmanship award will be presented Saturday at noon. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students. Advanced ticket books, which include tickets to all five sessions are $25 for adults and $15 for students. Single tickets for the championship finals are: adults $8, students $5.

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THURSDAY, 6 p.m. Opening Ceremonies Preliminary and first-rouhnd matches, 6:30 FRIDAY, noon Second round championship matches, as well as firstand second-rouhd consolation bouts FRIDAY, 6 p.m. Quarterfinal championship matches, as well as thirdand fourth-round consolation bouts SATURDAY, noon Championship semifinals and fifth- and semifinal rounds of consolations. SATURDAY, 6 p.m. Introduction and special awards ceremony SATURDAY, 6:30 p.m. Championship finals, third-, fifth- and seventh-place bouts

82500 Cadiz Jewett Rd., Cadiz, Ohio

Barnesville 3 Wheeling Central 3 Bellaire 5 Steubenville 6 Bridgeport 7 Beallsville, River 9 Buckeye Local 10 Harrison Central 11 John Marshall 13 Linsly 15 Martins Ferry 17 Shadyside 20 St. Clairsville 22 Union Local 24 Wheeling Park 26

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On the Cover

PICTURED ON the cover are four of the top entrants in this weekend’s 66th annual Ron Mauck OVAC Wrestling Tournament. Top row, from left, are Anthony Carman (John Marshall) and Anthony Rice (Steubenville). Bottom, from left, are Bridgeport’s Mason Kuneff and Tino Kusic . Cover DesIGN/JESSE KOVALSKI TAB DESIGN/KIM NORTH

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The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 3

Young Barnesville team looking to make noise By KIM NORTH

Times Leader Sports Writer

BARNESVILLE — With only four seniors in the starting lineup, the future is bright for Barnesville. However, head coach Jayson Stephen is looking at the present, not the future. “ Our team is a great team with a lot of talent and hard workers. They can do a lot of things this year and have a great year,” he said. “The OVAC tournament is a great tournament to be a part of and what better way to have a lot of goals met as a team and individual.” The senior class is led by Brylan Clouse (182) who has been slowed by an injury early on. A Division III district qualifier last winter, he is a perfect 4-0 so far. He placed third last year at 160 and is currently ranked No.

3 by OVAeC. “A strong and hard worker with a great attitude towards the sport of wrestling and life,” Stephen said of Clouse. He has a great future ahead of him.” Other seniors include Dylan Glotfelty (145), Neil Gibbons (170) and Zack Meade (220). Glotfelty and Meade were district qualifiers last season. “Dylan is a very talented wrestler who can do great things with the sport,” Stephen said of Glotfelty, who is 12-5 thus far and ranked 14th. “Neil is a good kid that wrestles hard and is open to do whatever it takes to help the team.” He is 1-0. “Zack is a very hard worker and a great kid. He gives you his all every time he steps on the mat,” Stephen noted of his 12-4 mat-

man, who is ranked No. 10. The lone junior in the lineup is Owen Oliver (160). He is currently 13-4 and ranked No. 9. He was also a district qualifier a year ago. “A very talented athlete who can have a great wrestling career,” Stephen said. “Also a hard worker and a good young man.” Four talented sophomores and a quartet of freshman complete the roster. The sophomores include A.J. Francis (120), George Hoover (132), Jacob Boulet (138) and Cameron Woods (152). Boulet (124) and Woods (11-4) were both district qualifiers last season. “A.J. is another young and talented good kid. Has a lot to offer the sport of wrestling,” Stephen noted. Francis is ranked ninth.

Central revives program under David Doyle By RICK THORP

Times Leader Sports Writer

WHEELING – Despite having just two wrestlers in his program, Wheeling Central head coach Dave Doyle has been encouraged by what he’s seen from his duo. As it heads to WesBanco Arena for this week’s Ron Mauck OVAC Championships, Doyle hopes his wrestlers simply continue the path of progress. “Win or lose, I want them to wrestle hard and wrestle smart,” he said. “Don’t overthink it, just wrestle and, ultimately, have fun with it.” Shannon Looney and CJ Rose will be competing for the Maroon Knights. Looney, a 145-pound freshman, sports a 1-9 mark and continues to grow, according to Doyle. “He previously wrestled for Triadelphia Middle School and also plays football and baseball,” he said. Rose is a heavyweight and stands at 5-8 on the campaign. “He’s new to the sport of wrestling and was a two-way starter for the football team,” Doyle said.

“He’s been showing real promise as of late.” Obviously, numbers have been an issue for Doyle. Still, the Maroon Knights have showcased their wares at numerous events thus far. “We’ve wrestled at Tyler Consolidated, St. Clairsville and Shadyside, achieving more success as the season progressed,” Doyle said. “ After OVACs, we plan to wrestle at Wellsville and then on to regionals.” The Maroon Knights also got a late start due to the football team’s run to another state crown. “We had trouble with numbers, but the two we have are dedicated to their craft and are working week in and week out to improve.” Doyle is assisted by Aaron Majetich. “The goal for the season was to achieve as much competitive mat time as possible,” Doyle said. “The only way to improve is to get out and wrestle. “We, unfortunately, have had to withdraw from duals because of numbers, but have been competing in pool tournaments to fill the need for competition.”

“George is a strong, hard worker in the room and is a good wrestler. Jacob is another hard worker that gives everything he has and leaves it all on the mat. Cameron is another very good wrestler. He is a hard worker with a great future ahead of him.” Boulet is ranked 16th and Woods 13th. Griffen Stephen (106), Carter Wells (113), Caiden Thornton (126) and Avery Clouse (285) are the frosh. Stephen, the son of the head coach, is 11-5 thus far in his first season of varsity

competition. “Griffen is a young and talented wrestler with a bright future ahead of him. He is a very hard worker and a great young man.” He was a junior high state qualifier a winter ago and is ranked fourth. Wells (12-5) has shown promise. He was a junior division placer and is ranked No. 11. “Another young and hard-working wrestler with a drive to win,” Stephen said. Thornton (3-10) is in his

first year of the sport. “He’s a young and talented athlete that is new to wrestling,” Stephen said. “He has a great future in wrestling.” Clouse (0-11) is another first-year grappler. “Another good kid who is new to the sport. He will be a good wrestler with more mat time.” The Shamrocks will not have an entrant at 195. Stephen is assisted by Rick Milhoan, Colin Carneal, Luke Johnson and Kyle King.

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PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Barnesville wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Georgie Hoover, Caiden Thornton, Caeddon Yager, Griffen Stephen, Carter Wells, AJ Francis and Austin Mayhugh. Second row, from left, are Owen Oliver, Bryce Farrabee, Brad Hall, Cole McCammon, Jacob Boulet, Dylan Glotfelty, Conner Jones and Orion Smith. Back row, from left, are assistant coach Collin Corneal, Coach Jayson Stephen, Cameron Woods, Avery Clouse, Brylan Clouse, Zack Meade, Lucas Clark, head coach Luke Johnson and assistant coach Rick Milhoan.

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Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 5

Bellaire wrestling program continues to rise By BUBBA KAPRAL Executive Sports Editor

BELLAIRE - The Bellaire mat program has enjoyed an upswing under the tutelage of Andrew “Chick” Lamotte. LaMotte is now in his third year of guiding the Big Reds’ grapplers. Last winter, the former Bridgeport High mat standout directed the Redmen to a 9-2 dual finish and a solid Class AAA showing in the 65th Annual OVAC Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament. Bellaire boasts some quality performers on its roster again this campaign. The Big Reds’ dual match success, however, has been hampered by too many open weight classes. Lamotte’s squad must forfeit five matches each contest. As a result, the Reds are just 3-4 in duals. Bellaire has also competed in two invitationals so far. The Big Reds took

part in the talented-packed Olentangy Liberty Invitational as well as the Coshocton Invite, where the Reds competed quite well. “We started out the season kind of slow. I have a new assistant in Mike Rose Jr. and he is doing a good job of implementing some new stuff. It took a while for some of our kids to pick up on it,” Lamotte said. “Now we are showing improvement. We are getting better every week and every match. “The kids are working hard. I am happy with their effort,” he added. “We are pointing to the state tournament, trying to get as many of our wrestlers to Columbus as possible. That is always are goal.” Bellaire has no competitors in the initial two weight classes, those being 106 and 113. Lamotte does have a dandy at 120 in Joe Bonfini. The battled-tested senior is 12-3 on the season. As a

OVAC Ron Mauck Tourney Officials

Tucker Brown, Cameron Andy Case, Wheeling Chris Case, Martins Ferry Ed “Buzz” Evans, Beallsville Larry Harding, Cadiz Shane Kildow, Belmont Kevin King, Wheeling Jared Leasure, Caldwell Harry McDonald, Lewis Center, OH Jack Regis, Martins Ferry Ken McWilliams, Canonsburg, Pa. Jeremy Cullen, W.Va. state rules interpreter

sophomore, Bonfini placed seventh in the OVAC tournament. “Joe is a captain and one of my leaders. He has been a dedicated performer for me,” Lamotte said. “I believe Joe has a chance to place really well this week in the OVAC.” Bellaire also forfeits the 126-weight class. Riley Kubic is Bellaire’s 132-pounder. He is a workin-progress frosh. Trenton Klempa is a veteran 138-pounder for the Big Reds. The senior has seven wins under his belt this winter. Bellaire boasts more quality at 145. Senior Griffen Heatherington is a dandy, compiling an 18-5 mark this season. “Griffen is having a very good season. He has beaten some quality wrestlers so far and lost a couple of close matches to very good wrestlers,” Lamotte offered. “He is one of my sleepers going into the OVAC. I think he

will do well.” The 152-pound class is handled by senior Nick Beckett. He is a 13-7 this year. “Nick is solid for us. He is having a good year,” Lamotte noted. Bellaire has a stud at 160 pounds in junior Cody Albaugh. He is 16-5 on the campaign. Albaugh placed fifth at 152 in last year’s OVAC extravaganza. “Cody is an extremely hard worker and that has paid off with him having another nice season. He puts in extra work and is a quality three-sport athlete,” Lamotte said. “He sets the example for our other wrestlers. They look up to him. I expect him to have a good OVAC tournament.” The Big Reds have an upand-comer at 170 in freshman Brandon Mamie. “Brandon is very promising. He is a hard worker and never gives up. Brandon has a lot of upside,” Lamotte offered.

Good Luck

Vince Patrone is another young grappler with potential. He is a 182-pound sophomore. Bellaire also lacks competitors at 195 and 215. Joe Hoepfner mans the heavyweight slot. He owns a 5-3 record so far in his senior season. The Bellaire roster is rounded out by junior Mason Beveridge (160), sophomore Caleb Rehfeldt (150) and foreign exchange student Pablo Cannero (145). Lamotte is confident of a nice showing in the OVAC mega-event by his Big Reds. “I believe we have some kids who will make some noise this weekend. I think we have some wrestlers who can surprise some people,” Lamotte said. “Class 3A has some quality teams in it.

Barnesville may be the team to beat.” Bellaire pocketed OVAC mat crowns in 1977 and 1978. In addition to Rose,a former Martins ferry standout grappler, Lamotte is being assisted by his father, Andrew, a longtime successful fixture in OVAC wrestling circles. Lamotte is excited about the future of the Bellaire mat program. After the OVAC event, the remaining Bellaire schedule reads like this: Jan. 26 - at Watkins Memorial Invitational; Feb. 6 - Dual match with Barnesville at home; Feb. 9 - Panther Classic at Buckeye Local; Feb. 16 — Buckeye 8 Championships at Union

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Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 6

PICTURED IS the 201819 Bellaire wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Pablo Antonanzas, Dante Patrone, Caleb Rehfeldt, Riley Kubic, Trenten Klempa and Joseph Bonfini. Back row, from left, are Griffen Heatherington, Vincent Patrone, Nick Beckett, Joey Hoepfner, Mason Beveridge, Dameyon Xenakis, Cody Albaugh and Aiden Dippel.

Photo/PAUL KRAJNYAK

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Steubenville wants to contend for titles By KIM NORTH

Times Leader Sports Writer

STEUBENVILLE — Head coach Mike Blackburn’s Steubenville wrestling team has had a very good start to the 2018-19 season. Big Red captured the championship of the 28th annual Wheeling Park Duals and the tough Nelsonville-York Invitational, while finishing a respectable second in the Burgettstown Invitational last weekend that was loaded with Pennsylvania powerhouses. Despite losing a pair of talented wrestlers in Jashon Hubbard and Tyler Ely, Steubenville is primed to make some noise this week when the 66th annual Ohio Valley Athletic Conference Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament begins a three-day stand on Thursday inside downtown Wheeling’s WesBanco Arena. “You always want to do better, but I think we are where we should be at this time of the year,” Blackburn said. Steubenville’s Anthony Rice (152) is back to defend his 138-pound championship from last year. He is currently ranked No. 1 in Ohio by BoroFan, as well as first by OVAeC. He is currently 19-2. He was seventh in Ohio last year at 138. “During the Ironman he had a great win over a kid that was ranked No. 1 in Division I in Ohio,” Blackburn said of Rice. “However, the tournament didn’t go the way he had hoped, but since then he’s undefeated and had a good season. “It’s up to Anthony. If he wants to wres-

tle, he can be as good as he wants.” Other seniors are Peyton Blasko (126), Jacson Muldrew (138) and Zane Minella (145). Blasko, now 16-2, is ranked fourth by OVAeC and No. 7 in Ohio. He finished runnerup last year at 113 and was fourth at 106 as a sophomore. He was also seventh in Ohio last year at 113. Muldrew, 17-3, missed last years tournament with an injury, but he is healthy and ranked No. 2 by OVAeC and is fifth in Ohio. Muldrew has placed third (126) and fourth (113) in the OVAC Tournament during his first two years at Shadyside. Minella, 12-9, was third at 126 in last seasons OVAC Tournament and fourth at the same weight as a sophomore. He is ranked sixth by OVAeC and 15th in Ohio. The junior class includes David Tuttle (182), Keith Bodnar (195) and Emanual Ware (285). Tuttle, 19-2, recently collected his 100th career victory in a dual meet against Wheeling Park. He is ranked No. 2 by OVAeC and 12th in Ohio. He placed third in last winter’s tournament and was an eighth-place finisher in Ohio. Tuttle was also fourth in the OVAC Tournament in 2017. Bodnar, 20-3, is ranked No. 2 by OVAeC and 16th in a tough Ohio weight class. He finished fifth at 195 last year. Ware, 18-3, has been impressive in his first varsity season. He is ranked fifth by OVAeC. See, STEUBENVILLE, Page 8

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The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 7

PICTURED IS the 201819 Bridgeport wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Josh Marshall, Ryan Kemp, Zay Richmond, Cody Swauger, Sean White, Christian Waterman and Zachary Kuneff. Second row, from left, are Assistant Coach Jason Fillipovich, Head Coach David Nelson, Skyler Hatten, Jarret Deaton, Mason Kuneff, Tino Kusic, Devin Danhart, assistant coach Dom Vinci and assistant coach Dennis Kasper. Photo/SHERI MCANINCH

Bridgeport eyeing Class 1A/2A championship By KIM NORTH

Times Leader Sports Writer

BRIDGEPORT — It’s been quite some time since Bridgeport has won an Ohio Valley Athletic Conference wrestling tournament title. The Bulldogs were second to Madonna for the Class 1A/2A championship last year but have their sights set on the top prize this season when the 66th annual OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament sets up shop Thursday night for a 3-day stay inside downtown Wheeling’s WesBanco Arena. “As a team, we are looking to compete for the 1A/2A title. We finished runnerup last year, but we are looking to build on that and reach the top,” head coach David Nelson said. “We are 5-2 in duals this year.” While everyone knows of Bridgeport’s “Big Two” in seniors Mason Kuneff (160) and Tino Kusic (170), Nelson stressed that the Bulldogs are more than just two wrestlers. “Mason should com-

pete for the title at 160. He placed fourth last year at 132 pounds,” Nelson said. “He has worked extremely hard this off-season building up muscle and has filled in nicely to be a 160-pounder. “Tino should also compete for the title this year at 170. He has placed here twice and was third two years ago,” Nelson added. “He is four wins away from Brian Roskovich’s school record for wins. He should have an opportunity to tie and maybe pass that record this weekend.” Kuneff and Kusic both are three-year captains. Kuneff is ranked fourth by OVAeC, while Kusic is No. 2. Kuneff, 27-2, has a career record of 135-32. Both of his setbacks came at the highly competitive Brecksville Invitational. He is a two-time state qualifier. In addition to his fourth-place finish last winter, he was sixth as a freshman at 126. Kusic, 23-0, has a career mark of 153-28. He is a three-time state qualifier and a two-time OVAC placer.

He finished fifth last year at 170. He missed a couple of weeks early this season due to medical issues, but is at 100-percent, according to his coach. “The kids in the room look to Mason and Tino as our leaders. I can always count on them to wrestle hard and pull out wins when we need them,” Nelson allowed. “They wrestle every day in practice, pushing each other to get better. Their success is largely due to each other. “Our success, as a team, comes from more than just Mason and Tino. All of the other wrestlers have been stepping up. That is what we will need if we want to win the Class 1A/2A title,” Nelson said. “My heavier weights — Devin Danhart (220) and Zach Kuneff (285) — have really picked it up this year and done well. I look for them to win a couple matches and make some noise in their weight classes.” Both juniors, Danhart has posted a 13-7 record, while Zac Kuneff is 16-8.

“My lower weights are young, but wrestle hard. Christian Waterman (113) won a match here last year and I look for him to build on that and hopefully get a couple more wins,” he continued. “We add Zay Richmond (138) to our lineup for the first time this season. He was a (Division III) district qualifier a year ago and really wrestled well at the end of last season. I look for him to continue that success this weekend. Skyler Hatten (152) has been a nice addition to the team. He has benefited from wrestling with Tino and Mason, I look for him to wrestle well this weekend and pick up a few wins.” Waterman (11-11) and Richmond (0-0) are sophomores. Hatten (10-8) is a junior. The remainder of the lineup will consist of freshmen Sean White (106, 10-16) and Cody Swauger (145, 2-22) Bridgeport has nine team championships, the last coming in 1988 when

it was crowned Class 3A champs. The Bulldogs also won the 2A title a year before and were titlists in the first seven events (1954-60) un-

der legendary head coach George Kovalick when it as a one-class tournament. Nelson is assisted by Jason Fillipovich and Dom Vinci.

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Continued from Page 6 healthy and ranked No. 2 by OVAeC and 11th in Ohio. He finished fourth at 120 last year. Pappas, 19-3, transferred from Edison where he placed sixth in last years tournament. He is ranked No. 2 by OVAeC and 14th in Ohio. A quartet of freshmen cap

the lineup. They are Anthony Shevlin (106), Rydge Hail (113), Brandon Kinney (170) and Peyton Tuttle (220). Shevlin is 10-9. Hail 2-11 and Kinney 10-5. Tuttle checks in at 5-10. Blackburn is assisted by Cornell Birden, Lucas Huffman and Ian Whittington.

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2018 OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament Results

• Steubenville Sophomores are Aaron Ferguson (120), Tyler Muldrew (132) and Ethan Pappas (160). Ferguson, 13-3, missed all of last season with an injury, but has really come on strong. He is ranked fifth by OVAeC and 13th in Ohio. Muldrew, 13-1, has been injured some, as well, but is

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Parkersburg So. 324.5; Beaver Local 240; Steubenville 205; University 159; Wheeling Park 149; E. Liverpool 138.5; J. Marshall 126; Madonna 109; Crestview 105.5; Oak Glen 100; Barnesville 99; M. Ferry 96.5; St. C. 91.5; Weir 75; I. Creek 66.5; Brooke 58; Bridgeport 55; U. Local 54; Edison 53; Caldwell 50.5; Bellaire 46; Shenandoah 39; Toronto 36.5; Buck. Local 36; Linsly 32.5; Magnolia 32; Meadowbrook 30; So. Local 29; Cambridge 26; Shadyside 26; H. Central 25; Morgantown 25; Cameron 24; Fort Frye 15; Steub. Catholic 12; Paden City 7; Wellsville 5; Beallsville 4.5; C.-Battelle 3; River 3; M. Central 0 Class 5A Parkersburg South 324.5; Beaver Local 240; University 159; Wheeling Park 149; John Marshall 126; Weir 75; Indian Creek 66.5; Brooke 58; Morgantown 25 Class 4A Steubenville 205; East Liverpool 138.5; Oak Glen 100; Martins Ferry 96.5; St. Clairsville 91.5; Edison 53; Buckeye Local 36; Meadowbrook 30; Cambridge 26; Harrison Central 25 Class 3A Crestview 105.5; Barnesville 99; Union Local 54; Bellaire 46; Magnolia 32; Fort Frye 15 Class 1A/2A Madonna 109; Bridgeport 55; Caldwell 50.5; Shenandoah 39; Toronto 36.5; Linsly 32.5; So. Local 29; Shadyside 26; Cameron 24; Steubenville Catholic 12; Paden City 7; Wellsville 5; Beallsville 45.5; C.-Battelle 3; River 3 106 1st: 2 Howard Williams, East Liverpool 9 2nd: 1 Jace Stockett, University 10 3rd: 10 John Woodburn, Beaver Local 9 4th: 3 Devin Easton, Parkersburg South 9 5th: 4 Isaak Murphy, Wheeling Park 10 6th: 7 Danny Yost, Brooke 10 7th: Camden Barr, Oak Glen 10 8th: 9 Eric Reed, Cambridge 9 113 1st: 1 Cole McComas, Beaver Local 10 2nd: 2 Peyton Blasko, Steubenville 11 3rd: 6 Koen Kish, St. Clairsville 9 4th: 3 Shawn Moore, Oak Glen 11 5th: 5 Brayden Reynolds, Barnesville 12 6th: 11 Brayden Johnson, Parkersburg So. 9 7th: 7 Marshal Niswonger, Caldwell 11 8th: Calvin Matthews, University 10 120 1st: 2 Tucker Windland, Parkersburg So. 11 2nd: 1 Jake Staud, University 10 3rd: 3 Terry Gatrell, Meadowbrook 11 4th: 4 Tyler Muldrew, Steubenville 9 5th: 7 Hayden Johnson, Edison 10 6th: 5 Maison Richardson, Wheeling Park 11 7th: 6 Brian Palmer Jr., Buckeye Local 9 8th: 8 Quintin Elerick, St. Clairsville 10 126 1st: 1 Brayden Roberts, Parkersburg So. 10 2nd: 2 Jacob Simpson, University 11 3rd: 4 Zane Minella, Steubenville 11 4th: 5 Levi Pemberton, Caldwell 12 5th: 8 Ryley Crall, Union Local 11 6th: 6 Clayton Moore, Bellaire 12 7th: 9 Devon Salsberry, Beaver Local 9 8th: 12 Garrett Dozier, Toronto 9 132 1st: 2 Caleb Rea, Weir 12 2nd: 1 Peyton Hall, Oak Glen 10 3rd: 3 Skyler Lasure, Beaver Local 10 4th: 5 Mason Kuneff, Bridgeport 11 5th: 7 Gavin Quiocho, Parkersburg South 9 6th: 8 Trey Wonner, Crestview 11 7th: 10 Bryce Farrabee, Barnesville 10 8th: 6 Billy Gooch, Wheeling Park 9 138 1st: 3 Anthony Rice, Steubenville 11

2nd: 1 Luke Martin, Parkersburg South 12 3rd: 2 Alec Cook, Madonna 11 4th: 5 Parker Mazik, Indian Creek 12 5th: 10 Collin Wiley, Caldwell 10 6th: 4 Noah Smith, Beaver Local 12 7th: 6 Steven Mitchell, Wheeling Park 9 8th: 11 Gage Walker, East Liverpool 11 145 1st: 2 Owen Zeiders, University 12 2nd: 1 Beau Smith, Beaver Local 11 3rd: 4 Zach Collins, Parkersburg South 12 4th: 5 Andrew Hardenbrook, Crestview 12 5th: 6 Michael Gray, Steubenville 12 6th: 3 Mitch Wukelic, Indian Creek 11 7th: Logan Mackey, Cameron 12 8th: 11 Michael Loy, East Liverpool 12 152 1st: 1 Josh Humphreys, Parkersburg So. 12 2nd: 2 Jashon Hubbard, Steubenville 12 3rd: 3 Seth Cade, Edison 12 4th: 4 Jared Wright, Beaver Local 11 5th: 5 Cody Albaugh, Bellaire 10 6th: 6 Brayden Starkey, Indian Creek 12 7th: 7 Christopher Helms, Brooke 11 8th: 12 Reese Skaggs, St. Clairsville 9 160 1st: 2 Anthony Carman, John Marshall 11 2nd: 1 Zane Hinzman, Parkersburg South 11 3rd: 3 Brylan Clouse, Barnesville 11 4th: 6 Mathew Ketchum, East Liverpool 12 5th: 5 Logan Krulik, Beaver Local 9 6th: 11 Hunter Baird, Madonna 12 7th: Charles Smith, Buckeye Local 10 8th: 10 Wyatt Strum, Oak Glen 12 170 1st: 1 Kaleb Simpkins, Wheeling Park 12 2nd: 3 Chad Mays, Beaver Local 12 3rd: 4 David Tuttle, Steubenville 10 4th: 6 Jacob Berisford, John Marshall 11 5th: 2 Santino Kusic, Bridgeport 11 6th: 5 Ethan Pappas, Edison 9 7th: 7 Logan Wilson, Indian Creek 11 8th: 11 Hunter Morris, Southern Local 9 182 1st: 1 Drew Dunbar, Parkersburg South 12 2nd: 3 Garrett Cook, Madonna 11 3rd: 4 Chas McCool, John Marshall 11 4th: 5 Dakota Stratton, Crestview 12 5th: 2 Victor Giovengo, Linsly 12 6th: 7 James Stillwagoner, Magnolia 10 7th: 9 Drake Dobson, Martins Ferry 11 8th: 6 Anthony Mecum, East Liverpool 12 195 1st: 1 Dalton Hoover, Martins Ferry 12 2nd: 3 Landon Talbert, Crestview 12 3rd: 2 Austin Loew, Wheeling Park 12 4th: 4 Donavan Kirby, Madonna 11 5th: 7 Keith Bodnar, Steubenville 10 6th: 9 Sam Lowe, Beaver Local 9 7th: 6 Dalton Fullerton, Parkersburg South 11 8th: 5 Brandon Durrah, John Marshall 12 220 1st: 1 Braxton Amos, Parkersburg South 10 2nd: 2 Dylan Wood, Wheeling Park 11 3rd: 6 Skylor Wooley, East Liverpool 10 4th: 3 Daniel Wirth, Beaver Local 10 5th: 5 Dalton Rice, Shenandoah 11 6th: 10 Ben Gribble, University 11 7th: 9 Kevin Cuervo, Steuben. Catholic 12 8th: Keith Wilson, Martins Ferry 12 285 1st: 3 Hunter Bodkin, Martins Ferry 12 2nd: 1 Tyler Ely, Steubenville 12 3rd: 2 Louden Haga, Parkersburg South 11 4th: 4 Josh Robinson, Shadyside 12 5th: 6 Zach Thomas, Beaver Local 12 6th: Layne Dunlap, Bridgeport 12 7th: 8 Ryan Ekey, Madonna 12 8th: 7 Easton Hitchens, Shenandoah 10

P F D

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 9

Beallsville, River are sending small contingents to tourney By RICK THORP

Times Leader Sports Writer

MONROE COUNTY – Beallsville and River will send small contingents to this week’s 66th annual OVAC Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament, but both the Blue Devils and Pilots are eager to see how they perform on one of the schedule’s biggest stages inside downtown Wheeling’s WesBanco Arena. Beallsville will be represented by Wyatt VanDyne. He’s18-6, with all of his victories coming via pin. “It’s definitely Ben a challenging season for us since he’s our only wrestler,” said his dad, and Beallsville head coach, Ernie VanDyne. “He is very given and always gives 110 percent. VanDyne advanced to the district tournament last season as a freshman and is aiming to reach the state mats this winter. “I can’t be anymore Photo/PAUL KRAJNYAK proud of Wyatt as his coach PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Beallsville wrestling team. or dad,” Coach VanDyne From left are Wyatt VanDyne and coach Ernie Van- said.”His mom and I will do anything we can to keep Dyne. the program going at Bealls-

ville for Wyatt and all future wrestlers.” While VanDyne is in his first season guiding the Blue Devils, Chuck Baker has been around the River program for a while. The Pilots have six wrestlers headed to downtown Wheeling. “We had some kids out this year and the last two years only two kids,” Baker said, although he noted numbers are improving and should improve greatly next year with the infusion of a group of freshmen. “We started out with 11kids this year. We have no seniors and one junior.” Baker has high hopes for his 113-pounder, Chris Heavener, a sophomore who sports a 14-8 mark. “He’s our best wrestler on the team right now,” Baker said. “He has the most time on the mat and he’s Ben wrestling forever.” At 120, the Pilots have CJ Polka, another sophomore. “He’s a first-year wrestler, very strong,” Baker said. “He’s learning very quick. He’s looking like he

can be good in a couple of years.” Freshman Chance Gillis is in at 132, while at 138, Nick Macheca, another freshman, is slotted in. “He was at 180 last year and now he’s at 138, by his own doing,” Baker said. “We’re trying to put some meat back on him.” Zack Hocut will represent the Pilots at 145. He’s a sophomore. “He’s from Texas,” Baker

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1989 — Mark Emmerling, East Liverpool 1990 —Babe Sidon, Martins Ferry 1991 — Douglas Knight, Steubenville 1992 — R.C. Anderson, Cameron 1993 — Kelly Shields, Edison South 1994 — Dustin Harris, Beaver Local 1995 — Justin Ewing, St. Clairsville 1996 — Eric Anderson, St. John Central 1997 — Ryan Muldrew, J. Marshall 1998 — Chad Pratz, Linsly 1999 — Jose Smith, Cambridge 2000 — Scott Roth, Martins Ferry 2001 — Cole Bowersock, Beaver Local 2002 — Derek George, John Marshall 2003 — David Bertolino, Buckeye Local

said. “He’s doing this to become a better football player.” Then, at 152, River has Hunter Nevins, a freshman who just became eligible. “I’m hoping we can a couple to the podium,” Baker said. “It will be a learning experience for them. Other than the 113-pounder, they haven’t wrestled in a big arena like that. They’ll be star-struck.”

2004 — Adam Hoppel, Beaver Local 2005 — Clay Tucker, Martins Ferry 2006 — Zack Schuler, St. Clairsville 2007 — James Myers, Indian Creek 2008 — Jimmy Reisz, Beallsville 2009 — Dirk Bauer, Wheeling Park 2010 — Dylan Ice, Beaver Local 2011 — Kyle Bauer, Wheeling Park 2012 — David Jeffrey, Parkersburg South 2013 — Cody Amos, Wheeling Park 2014 — Jonny Davis, Wheeling Park 2015 — Alex Potts, East Liverpool 2016 — Tariq Wilson, Steubenville 2017 — Peyton Hall, Oak Glen 2018 — Josh Humphreys, Parkersburg South 2019—????

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 10

PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Buckeye Local wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Front row, from left, are Cherokee Sproules, Nick Sipes, Jacob Anderson, Caleb Bonar, Danny Nation, Trevor Herbert and Bub Palmer. Middle row, from left, are Hailee Nelson, Aiden Kurpinski, Travis Light, Alexio Morales, Charlie Smith, Tyler Donahue and Morgan Richardson. Back row, from left, are Head Coach Willie Saxton, Caitlynn Utter, Zac Cesario, Shane Christian, Jordyn Spencer, Dane Zinn, Nathan Hesske, Adam Pernak, Hannah Badger and assistant coach Roger Herbert. Photo/ACTION IMAGES

Buckeye Local ready for season’s stretch run By RICK DELUCA

and this week’s giant Ron Mauck OVAC Wrestling Tournament is the first step Buckeye Local head of the stretch run. wrestling coach looks at “I look at the OVAC tourthe season in increments nament as the first step to Times Leader Sports Writer

the state,” Saxton said. Saxton has a great deal of experience on the mats and with the OVAC Wrestling Tournament. A two-time champion

GOOD LUCK BUCKEYE LOCAL PANTHERS! Good Luck Panthers!

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with the Panthers during his prep days, he’s spent the last several, including the last four with his alma mater, as a coach with the Panthers, he has a good idea as to what it takes to be there. This Buckeye team that Saxton is taking to the OVAC tournament is vastly improved over the past few years. Buckeye returns with two place finishers from a year ago, three wrestlers who are currently ranked in the state and six that will be gaining a third or fourth letter this season. Despite the advances, Saxton doesn’t hesitate to remind people that the program has a long way to go and time is their best ally. “We shown a lot of improvement over the past year,” Saxton said. “We have a 6-5 dual record and we haven’t had a winning record going into the OVACs since I’ve been here. We advanced to the regionals last year in the state duals and with this group and the people we have coming back, we expect to do a lot better.”

“This year it evolves around everybody working together as a group,” he added. “They have shown a lot heart and desire to win big matches and that shows with the start we had to this season. Am I happy with what they have done, yes, but do I think we can do a lot better, absolutely. That takes time and I know that.” “The freshmen that I have are a very solid group,” Saxton pointed out, mentioning that the freshmen that will be headed into the OVAC tournament earned those spots by edging upperclassman. Two wrestlers are back at it after placing in the OVAC tournament last year, 132-pound Brian Palmer and 170-pound Charles Smith. Both placed seventh last season and will carry very good records into the tourney this year. Palmer finished at 41-12 last season as a freshman and this year has put together a 21-1 mark along with a first at the Union Local tournament and third at Barnesville. Palmer has beaten some very good wrestlers

this season according to Saxton and is currently ranked sixth in the state. Smith, just a junior, will be taking a 13-5 record into the tournament that includes a third place finish at Union Local. Smith placed at 160 last year and will be moving up a weight class. Another Panther ranked in the stated in senior Shayne Christian who will be taking a 13th place state ranking and a 16-6 record into the OVAC tourney. Christian placed second at Union Local. Buckeye’s other ranked wrestler is junior 220-poun Zac Cesario, currently 10th in Ohio, he owns a 14-6 record and placed second at UL. This is Cesario’s third year as a letterwinner. Two other seniors on the roster and looking forward to the OVAC tournament are 113-pound Jordyn Spencer and 195-pound Jack Reese. Reese has been nursing an injury since last season, but will be ready for OVACs. Spencer is a tough senior competing in her fourth OVAC tournament. SpenSee, BUCKEYE, Page 12

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 11

If Harrison Central’s ready to compete, watch out By RICK THORP

Times Leader Sports Writer

CADIZ – Bill Bryant normally isn’t one for setting goals. However, as he brings each of his Harrison Central wrestling teams into the season he wants to have the prepared for two things – the postseason and the Ron Mauck OVAC Championships. The latter open Thursday at WesBanco Arena in downtown Wheeling and Bryant believes if his Huskies are ready for OVACs, they’ll be ready to tackle any challenge. “I’d like to finish in the top four in (Class) 4A and be in the top 10 overall,” Bryant said. “Neither of those will be easy to accomplish, but very attainable. “A lot of our success will be determined on two things

– getting wrestlers seeded, which will be hard since we wrestle out of the area to start the season and, with no returning place winners from a year ago. The other is how our wrestlers get drawn into the bracket, that we can’t seed. “I would like to put three to four in the finals and, hopefully, we can push for about six to seven placers total.” Injuries have stymied the Huskies this season. They’re 0-4 in dual meets, but have fared better in tournaments. Harrison Central was seventh out of 18 teams at the Wayne Invitational Tournament in Smithville and eighth at West Jefferson. “I’m hoping to get four wrestlers medically cleared from injuries before OVACs,” Bryant said. “Regardless, we will continue to try and overcome these inju-

ries by continuing to grind it out.” The Huskies have a pair of freshmen at the start of their roster in Justin Sampson (106) and Avery Wallace (113/120). “He has made some early-season mistakes that have cost him a couple of matches,” Bryant said of Sampson. “But I believe he’ll place at OVACs if he wrestles like he did against the projected OVAC champ, only losing an 8-5 decision.” Wallace, Bryant said, is the most dedicated freshman on the team. “He hasn’t missed a single practice and is a hard worker that is starting to turn the corner,” he said. “He could have a breakout weekend and push for the podium if we can get a favorable draw.” Senior Zane Everhart has plenty of potential at

Mr. Mat Award Winners 1996 — Larry Chambers, Moundsville 1976 — George Kovalick, Bellaire Athletic Director Jr. High 1977 — Bill Van Horne, Sports Editor of 1997 — Gary Davis, Beallsville High Wheeling News Register 1998 —Cal Pokas, Sports Editor of The 1978 — John Vrotsos, Martins Ferry Times Leader High School 1999 — Tom Lackman, Jefferson Union 1979 — Richard Edge, Principal of Springfield High 2000 — Ed “Buzzy” Evans – 1980 — George Wally, John Marshall 2001 — William McEldowney, Wheeling Athletic Director 2002 — John Craig, Indian Creek 1981 — Bob Hedmon, Steubenville Ath2003 — Ed Dugas, John Marshall High letic Director 2004 — Jeff Oberdick, Martins Ferry 1982 — Paul Crago, Marshall Co. Schools 2005 — Dan Doyle, Superintendent of 1983 — Dr. Vincent Monseau, West Lib- Noble County Schools erty State College 2006 — Nolan Van Gilder, Brooke 1984 — Bill Hingardner, John Marshall 2007 — Rick Link, Union Local 1985 — Dennis Bowman, Bellaire 2008 — Jim Potts, Cameron 1986 — Ronald Mauck, Brooke 1987 — Eric Carder, Wheeling Park Ath2009 — Paul Billiard, Brooke letic Director 2010 — Jeff Carroll, Cambridge 1988 — Dave Kovalick, Barnesville 2011 — Rich Gregor, Springfield High 1989 — Steve Kish Principal of Bellaire 2012 — Art Hehr, Bridgeport High 2013 — Dave LaMotte, Bridgeport 1990 — Carl Fodor, Hancock Co. Schools 2014 — Darrell Davis, Barnesville 1991 — Dr. William Welker, Warwood 2015 — Gene Monteleone, Whg Park Middle 2016 — Jim Crosier, Union Local 1992 — Larry Deaton, Martins Ferry 2017— Chick LaMotte, St. John Central 1993 — John Stephenson, Cadiz High 2018 — Larry Shaw, Oak Glen 1994 — Joe Bates, Woodsfield High 1995 — Bob Bruney, Martins Ferry 2019—?????

132, according to Bryant, as does junior Austin Howard at 138. “He’s a bit of sleeper,” he said of Howard, who’s yet to wrestler this winter due to injury. Bryce Wade, a junior, will compete at 145, while the 152 slot is in flux. “The front runner is senior Zach Marbais,” Bryant said. “He’s been wrestling 170 most of the year and doing a great job. However, if he can’t get down to weight we could see him at 160 or 170.

“The other challengers with be junior Ethan Toto and freshman Nathan Bertolino.” Hayden Wallace, a junior, is at 160. Junior Tucker Coultrap is the top contender at 170, although Marbais or junior Blaine Millikan could emerge there. Senior Blayne Erwin is eyed at 182. “He’s having a fabulous year so far,” Bryant said, “winning the West Jefferson Invitational after two weeks off the mats.” Josh Croft, a senior at

195, has finalist potential, Bryant said. Freshman Logan Ellis, he said, has been a pleasant surprise at 220. At heavyweight, the Huskies boast their team captain – Cody Gamble. “Anyone that truly knows Cody knows that there aren’t many people out there like him,” Bryant said. “I’d love to have a full team of Cody Gambles. “This weekend will not be an easy road for Cody, but he will be on that podium. He has worked very hard to get to this point and deserves to be there.”

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 12

Photo/ActION IMAGES

PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Harrison Central wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Hailey Katz, Kate Evans, Cael Bryant, Aubrey Bryant, Brasen Bryant, Alexis Jenkins, Kirsten Slone and Justin Sampson. Second row, from left, are John Wagner, Nathan Bertolino, Blaine Milliken, Bryce Wade, Jesse McLeod, Dillon Drapp, Braden Pastor, Avery Wallace and Luke McKinney. Third row, from left, are Tucker Coultrap, Austin Howard, Zach Marbais, Zane Everhart, Gabe Marbais, Ethan Toto, Blayne Erwin and Lee Sponaugle. Fourth row, from left, are Mat Stat Adviser Sis Bittinger, Hayden Wallace, Cody Gamble, Assistant Coach Joe Thomas, Head Coach Bill Bryant, Assistant Coach Adam Cumings, Assistant Coach Richard McKinney, Logan Ellis, Josh Croft and Mat Stat Adviser Jo Croft.

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Continued from Page 10 cer has a 9-13 record this season, that includes a 6th place finish in Union Local. Buckeye features a top of the line wrestler at 106 in freshman Trevor Herbert. The first-year grappler holds a 17-9 record and placed second at Shadyside and sixth at Barnesville. Herbert is ranked sixth in the district. “We start with Herbert at 106 and that gives us a start in the duals and carries right through Travis Light , Palmer and right down the line,” Saxton said. Light is a junior with a 10-9 record and a third place finish at Union Local has show tremendous improvement according to Saxton. “We have plenty of underclass wrestlers who have 10-plus win records and that’s a big plus for our program. You can’t ask for much more from our upperclassmen who have provided the leadership and knowledge to the younger wrestlers.” “They work very well as a group. When one goes down, the rest rally around and pick that person up,” Saxton added. Saxton’s entry into the OVAC tournament will also include sophomore Danny Nation with an 8-15 record at 145, freshmen Jacob Anderson, 5-13 at 145, and Ayden Krupinski, 10-11 at 152 with 5th place finish at UL. At 160, the Panthers have sophomore Tyler Donahue with an 8-16 record. Saxton has a good group of assistants as well with Roger Herbert and Brad Brooks helping at the varsity level, while Kyle Solar and Ryan Morrow coach at the junior high level.

25-Year Champions Champions from the 1994 OVAC Tournamnent will be recognized during Saturday night’s festivities. 103--Lamont Tucker, Martins Ferry 112--Chad Burge, Cameron 119--Justin Ewing, St. Clairsville 125--Nick Spencer, Edison 130--Tim Sarge, East Liverpool 135--Cliff Ward, John Marshall 140--Jason Mokros, Shadyside 145--Frank Valentine, Martins Ferry 152--Dustin Harris, Beaver Local 160--Matt Aldrich, East Liverpool 171--Jeremy Cramer, Woodsfield 189--Chinadu Achebe, Steub. Catholic HWT--Luke Underwood, Weir According to organizer Steve Kish, Jr., Tucker, Burge, Spencer, Sarge, Ward, Mokros, Cramer and Underwood will return for the event. Wheeling Park won the team title 25 years ago and its head coach, Ed “Buzz” Evans will be honored, as well.

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 13

PICTURED IS the 201819 John Marshall wrestling team. The Monarchs team includes Gabe Carman, Ethan Gray, Carl Cochran, Matthew Tschappat, Angel Turner, Andrew Dorsey, Mason Orndorff, Ben McCardle, Freddy Hicks, Peyton Shook, Austin Love, Cody Richard, Kaden Shriner, Jacob Berisford, Brady Williams and Anthony Carman. The team is coached by head coach Ted Zervos, Ryan Asbury, Nate Skrzypek and Paden Morris.

Photo Provided

John Marshall built for run at championship By CODY TOMER For The Times Leader

MOUNDSVILLE—The John Marshall wrestling program has been building something special over the last four years. A core group of seniors have grown into standout wrestlers for the Monarchs and they are looking to finish their careers strong with a memorable showing at the OVAC tournament. “When my seniors were just freshmen, we couldn’t expose them as much,” JM coach Ted Zervos said. “Each year we have just added stiffer competition to raise the bar. This year, I don’t think I could have asked for a more difficult schedule. “The boys have continued to get better all season. Everyone is in their weight classes for the remainder of the year and their bodies have gotten acclimated to

those classes. “I think we have a very solid team of individuals who can all have success at OVACs. We have several kids who have set their goals high and if they wrestle well, they can reach those goals.” Starting with senior captain in the heavyweight division, Brady Williams has made a name for himself in competition and in practice. The 285-pound grappler is currently 24-5 on the season. “Brady has great leadership qualities,” Zervos said. “The kids follow him, believe in him and they trust him. He is a blue collar worker. He works out with the coaches everyday and just wants to get better every day. “He even stays after practice to talk with the coaches about improving his game. He has high expectations for OVACs and will work hard to reach his goals.”

Another team captain has his sights set on another OVAC title, a state title and a bright future at West Virginia University. Anthony Carman is 28-1 this year and is committed to WVU to continue his career next season. “Anthony continues to grow and improve as a wrestler, as a team leader and as an individual,” Zervos said. “I’ve felt he has been very good in the past but he has grown so much, especially in the neutral position on his feet, this year. “He has become a much more complete wrestler. I don’t feel he has a weakness in his game at this time.” The third team captain is senior Austin Love (132), who always shines brightest in the spotlight. “Austin always seems to wrestle his best in the big tournaments,” Zervos said. A name known all throughout the OVAC is

Jacob Berisford, Zervos’ 170-pound senior, who sits at 23-6 this year. He finished second in the state a year ago and is hoping to reach the top spot this season. “We have had high expectations of him all season

long,” Zervos said. “The pressure may have been a little much at the beginning of the season but I see him practicing differently and wrestling differently now. “It is starting to come together. He can be anywhere on the podium that he choos-

es to be.” The final two seniors are Peyton Shook at 126 and Roy Rayl (145), who is in his first year wrestling. Another first-year wrestler for the Monarchs this year is junior Bradlee Clark, See, JOHN, Page 14

Good Luck John Marshall!

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 14

• John Continued from Page 13 who has made a quick impact in the 220 weight class. He enters the OVAC tournament with a 21-2 mark. “Bradlee has opened a lot of eyes in his first year,” Zervos said. “All of his wins have come by pin, either in the first or second periods. He only has two losses—one by injury default and the other against the No. 1 ranked kid in AA (Bridgeport’s Kavaughn Summers). Ethan Gray leads the junior class with an 18-9 record in the 120 group, while classmate Dakota Thatcher is JM’s 138 grappler. Carl Cochran (106), Gabe Carman (113), Ben McCardle (152) and Cameron McClure (195) are four freshmen looking to follow in the footsteps of the six seniors and they are off to great starts. Gabe Carman enters OVACs with a 20-7 mark, while Cochran is 19-8. “Cochran is going to start us out on the right foot at OVACs in the 106 weight class,” Zervos said. “He is very explosive and dynamic and I’ve seen him grow so much this season.

GOOD LUCK

JOHN MARSHALL MONARCHS

T-L File Photo/KIM NORTH

JOHN MARSHALL’S Anthony Carman works on an arm bar during last year’s OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament. He captured the 160-pound championship and is top-seeded at 182 this year.

GOOD LUCK MONARCHS! FROM THE JOHN MARSHALL ATHLETIC BOOSTERS

ST. CLAIRSVILLE’S Koen Kish looks for a pin during last year’s OVAC Tournament. He is seeded second at 120 pounds.

T-L File Photo/KIM NORTH

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 15

PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Linsly wrestling team. Team members include Julkian Giovengo, Cyrus Hill, Chance Knight, Alex Papadimitriou, Neville Kruger, Brad Bin, Fabian Egger, Gunner Kernik, Zachary Simmons and Diego Solano.

Photo Provided

Linsly will enter 10 competitors in weekend event By RICK THORP

Times Leader Sports Writer

WHEELING – Linsly will send 10 competitors on to the mats this week when the 66th annual OVAC Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament commences at WesBanco Arena. Head coach Brian Valentine is eager to see what his kids can do on the sport’s biggest stage in the area. “We look forward to this tournament

every year because it gives us a chance to compete with everyone in the valley,” he said. The Cadets boast three captains – Julian Giovengo, Cyrus Hill and Chance Knight. Giovengo, a senior, competes at 138 pounds and sports an 11-6 record. “He’s the leader of our team,” he said. Hill, also a senior, is 12-9 at 170, while Knight is 17-4. “He’s having a good year,” Valentine said of Knight, a junior.

Linsly has also received contributions from senior Alex Papadimitriou, who’s 15-7 at 160 “He’s a great kid,” Valentine said.”We’re glad he came back out this year.” Neville Kruger, a 285-pounder who’s 4-2, is another Cadet senior, along with Brad Bin (3-2), a 152-pounder who’s been with Valentine for four years. Fabian Egger (12-5), who will compete at 182, is Linsly’s other senior. “He’s a tough kid,” Valentine said.

The Cadets boast a trio of sophomores, led by 145-pounder Gunner Kernik. “He shows a lot of potential,” Valentine said of Kernik (13-7). Zachary Simmons (5-5), at 152, and Diego Solano (2-0), at 132, round out the Linsly contingent. “This season, we had a lot of kids in the same weight classes,” Valentine said. “So, we have not been able to put together a full team. But the kids I have are good kids and wouldn’t ask for anything more.”

GOOD LUCK

BUCKEYE LOCAL’S Brian Palmer Jr. works for back points from a match last year at the OVAC Tournament. He oplaced seventh and was also an all-Ohioan.

T-L File Photo/KIM NORTH

LINSLY CADETS

304-233-1436

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 16

•

PICTURED IS the 201819 Martins Ferry wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Neil Gilbert, Kolton Kapiskosky, Mason Walton, Hunter Lude and Chase Ward. Middle row, from left, are Alexander Lude, Chase Goff, Noah Duck and Kameron Hughes. Back row, from left, are Richie McFarland, Drake Dobson, Zak Dobson, Zeke Bruney and Donte Lewis.

Photo/BRIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY

Ferry’s Ware no stranger to OVAC tournament By KIM NORTH

Times Leader Sports Writer

Good Luck

MARTINS FERRY — at Martins Ferry. HowevChad Ware is in his first er, he is no stranger to the year as head wrestling coach program or the sport as he enters his first Ohio Valley Athletic Conference Ron Mauck Tournament this weekend. The 66th annual event starts Thursday inside downtown Wheeling’s WesBanco Arena.

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The Purple Riders finished fourth in the Class 4A standings last winter and had a pair of individual titlists — Dalton Hoover (195) and Hunter Bodkin (285) — who have both graduated. “I think we can compete for the Class 4A title,” Ware

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said as he prepared his team for the tournament. “We’ve got a solid lineup. We’re young, but we’ve got some talented kids.” In addition to Hoover and Bodkin, only one other Purple Rider reached the podium — that being senior Drake Dobson who placed seventh at 195. He was a Division III sectional and district champion and won a match at the state tournament. “Drake is our lone senior and captain. “Drake

is currently 13-2 with one loss coming at 220,” Ware said. “He is seeded fifth in this years tournament. “Drake is the vocal leader of our team and also leads by example,” Ware continued. “We look for him to make a statement at this years OVAC Tournament and finish near the top of the podium.” Juniors include Chase Ward (138), Richie McFarland (182) and Donte Lewis (285). See, FERRY’S, Page 17

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 17

• Ferry’s Continued from Page 16 “Chase is 12-3 thus far. He recently won the championship at the St. Clairsville America’s Best Value Inn Tournament,” Ware noted. “Chase is seeded 10th in this years OVAC tournament. He has shown vast improvement from his freshman and sophomore seasons and we believe he has the potential to take the next step and finish on the podium in this years OVAC tournament. “Richie is 11-5 so far. He is a returning Ohio State qualifier. He is seeded 11th for this years OVAC tournament,”Ware said. “Richie has gotten off to a some-

what slow start this year, losing some close matches that could have gone the other way. If he has confidence in himself and wrestles to the ability that we know he can, he can definitely stand on the podium Saturday night. “Donte is 15-1 with his one loss coming to a West Virginia-ranked wrestler from Nitro. Donte took home first place this year at the Barnesville Invitation and finished second at St. Clairsville. “Donte is seeded third in this years OVAC Tournament. He has been a surprise to most this year as this is first year starting at heavyweight,” Ware explained. “The

past two seasons he has been behind Hunter Bodkin who finished second in the state last year and Dom Wallace who finished third in the state in 2017. “Donte has been a surprise to most, but not to us. We expect him to continue to wrestle at a high level and finish high come Saturday.” A pair of sophomores bring decent records into the weekend. They are Chase Goff (160) and Kameron Hughes (170). “Chase is 14-2 on the year. He has finished fourth at Barnesville this year and also brought home the championship at the St. Clairsville America’s Best Value Inn Tour-

nament,” Ware added. “Chase is seeded 8th is this years OVAC tournament. He did not wrestle in last years OVAC tournament due to transfer issues, so we look for him to make up for lost time this year and make a statement. “Kameron is 12-5. He recently finished third at the St. Clairsville America’s Best Value Inn Tournament. He is seeded 11th in this years tournament,” Ware said. “Kameron has shown a lot of improvement this year from his freshman season and we expect him to continue to improve each day.” The starting roster is completed

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by five freshmen. They are Neil Gilbert (126), Kolton Kapiskosky (132), Hunter Lude (145), Tyler Donaher (152) and Zak Dobson (220). “Neil is 5-9, but three of his wins have come by fall,” Ware said. “This is his second year wrestling. He is improving every day. “Kolton is 5-10, with three of his wins coming by fall. This is Kolton’s second year wrestling,” Ware said. “He has the potential to become a great wrestler for us. He just needs more mat time to gain experience and build his confidence. See, FERRY’S, Page 18

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OVAC WRESTLING

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Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 18

PICTURED IS the 201819 River wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Chace Gillies, C.J. Polka, Chris Heavner, Justin Thomas and Hunter Nevins. Standing, from left, are head coach Chuck Baker, statistician Haley Nevins, Nick Macheca, Zach Hocutt, Nate Bowers, Jake Rose, statistician Caitlyn Michener and Eric Stephens. Photo/PAUL KRAJNYAK

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• Ferry’s Continued from Page 17 “Hunter is 5-10 record with four pins. He has taken some lumps early this season wrestling in a higher weight class than his natural weight, but he has great work ethic and is a tough kid,” Ware noted. “I believe this will help him become a great wrestler for our program. “Tyler is a freshman with a 1-0 record. He has wrestled behind Chase and Hunter at lower weight classes, so he doesn’t have much mat time,” Ware added. “Tyler is a great kid to be around and always brings a smile to your face. He comes to practice every day to learn and get better. “Zak has a .500 record. Last year Zak had a fantastic 8th grade season finishing 29-3,” Ware continued. “This year he is wrestling multiple weight classes above his natural weight due to having two returning state qualifiers below him in the lineup. “Zak is a strong kid who is learning how to wrestle in the upper weight classes. He is gaining confidence and getting better every time he steps on the mat.” Ware is assisted Taylor Yoder and Chas Yoder, who was previously the head coach.

T-L Photo/KIM NORTH

MARTINS FERRY’S Donte Lewis has been a surprise to many this sesson, but he’s not getting a big head over his success. He’s seeded third this weekend and will take on Oak Glen’s Cole English.

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 19

2019 OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament Pairings 66th Annual OVAC Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament (WesBanco Arena, Wheeling) Preliminary Round 145—Hunter Lude (MF) vs. Logan Bennett (EL); Bryce Hunt (Cald) vs. Cody Swauger (Bpt); Roy Rayl (JM) vs. Chance Ayers (Camb); Shannon Looney (WC) vs. Kyre Smith (Tor) 152—Gabe Cusick (CV) vs. Michael Gale (Morg); Trenton Mitchell (Mag) vs. Chase Smith (OG); Ian McKenna (SCC) vs. Bryson Utter (UL); Leo Baker (FF) vs. James Tood (Mad) 285—Zac Kuneff (Bpt) vs. Richard Montelione (SCC) First Round Pairings 106—1 Alex Overly (Shen) vs. Justin Sampson (HC); Bryan Cattrell (Tor) vs. bye; 9 Samantha Miller (PS) vs. bye; 8 Gannon Kazmirski (STC) vs. bye; 5 Jarrett Stillion (Mead) vs. Sean White (Bpt); 12 Grant Oxley (Univ) vs. bye; Vince Barcalow (SCC) vs. bye; Colin Greenwood (UL) vs. 4 Carl Cochran (JM); 3 Danny Yost (Brk) vs. Tyler Sipes (IC); Thomas Wilson (Weir) vs. bye; 11 Camden Barr (OG) vs. bye; Jason Rainer (Cald) vs. 6 Griffen Stephen (Barn); 7 Cody Taggart (WP) vs. Korey Kakascik (Mad); 10 Anthony Shevlin (Steub) vs. bye; Trevor Herbert (BL) vs. bye; Justin Bucheit (EL) vs. 2 Jaymin Salsberry (BvL) 113—1 Howard Williams (EL) vs. Joseph Savage (Tor); Jasop Spragg (PC) vs. bye; 9 Gabe Carman (JM) vs. Dylan Dean (Cam); Jordyn Spencer (BL) vs. 9 Eric Reed (Cam); 5 Marshal Niswonger (Cald) vs. Rydge Hail (Steub); 12 Josh DeNoble (STC) vs. bye; Cameron Johnson (Weir) vs. bye; Chad Tice (Wells) vs. 4 Nate Shelek (WP); 3 Shawn Moore (OG) vs. Braydon DeMaria (Brk); Laramie Giesey (Shen) vs. bye; 11 Zac Ross (IC) vs. bye; Eric Shriver (Morg) vs. 6 Devin Easton (PS); 7 Mark Emmerling (BvL) vs. Christian Waterman (Bpt); Christopher Heavner (Riv) vs. bye; Nate Loot (SCC) vs. bye; 2 Jace Stockett (Univ) vs. Carter Wells (Barn) 120—1 Logan Ours (BvL) vs. Christian Polka (Riv); Brandon Parsons (Cald) vs. bye; 9 Maison Richardson (WP) vs. Doug Whitman (Tor); Clayton Lamb (OG)

vs. 8 Joseph Bonfini (Bell); 5 Matthew Simpson (Univ) vs. Nathaniel Gibson (UL); 12 A.J. Francis (Barn) vs. bye; Logan Wagner (FF) vs. bye; Travis Harper (Shen) vs. 4 Brayden Johnson (PS); 3 Terry Gattrell (Mead) vs. Cameron Wolfe (CV); Travis Carr (Mag) vs. bye; Travis Light (BL) vs. bye; Valen Krzyston (Wells) vs. 6 Aaron Ferguson (Steub); 7 Ethan Gray (JM) vs. Landen Tustin (Cam); John George (Brk) vs. 10 Kaleb Bailey (EL); Avery Wallace (HC) vs. bye; Daniel Ross (IC) vs. 2 Koen Kish (STC) 126—1 Cole McComas (BvL) vs. Neil Johnston (Brk); Shane Lucey (IC) vs. bye; 9 Aubrey Antill (Camb) vs. Caiden Thornton (Barn); Peyton Shook (JM) vs. Chance Wooley (SL); 5 Gavin Ray (OG) vs. Jesse Coulter (Mag); 12 Kason Delancey (FF) vs. bye; Landon Bailey (EL) vs. bye; Austin Macek (Mad) vs. 4 Tucker Windland (PS); 3 Jake Staud (Univ) vs. Neil Gilbert (MF); William Moore (Shen) vs. bye; 11 Quintin Elerick (STC) vs. bye; Isaac Ball (Cam) vs. 6 Derek Houser (CV); 7 Wyatt Conley (Weir) vs. Joel Ackley (Cald); Gabe Marbais (BL) vs. 10 Jason Tice (Wells); Trent McManes (Mead) vs. bye; Cameron Lawrence (Morg) vs. 2 Peyton Blasko (Steub) 132—1 Jacob Simpson (Univ) vs. Tristen Neiswanger (Mead); Zach Close (Tor) vs. bye; 9 Canon Welker (WP) vs. Chance Gilles (Riv); Trentin Thompson (Morg) vs. 8 Caden Stout (STC); 5 Hayden Johnson (ED) vs. Michael Gerard (Cald); Tanner Rambo (Wells) vs. 12 Nick Blackburn (Shen); Zane Everhart (HC) vs. Conner Rogers (Cam); Brendan Schrader (Shady) vs. 4 Brian Palmer Jr. (BL); 3 Jonathon Potts (BvL) vs. Jacob Caughman (SL); Reese Spencer (IC) vs. Kolton Kapiskosky (MF); 11 Jude Childers (PS) vs. Ryan Kemp Bpt); George Hoover (Barn) vs. 6 Caden Kenworthy (Camb); 7 Ryley Crall (UL) vs. Diego Solano (Lin); Braidyn Wright (EL) vs. 10 Austin Love (JM); Camden O’Connor (OG) vs. Sam Zombotti (Mag); Antonio Daddario (Mad) vs. 2 Tyler Muldrew (Steub) 138—1 Peyton Hall (OG) vs. Roman Baird (Mad); Dakoyta Thatcher (JM) vs. Seth Alford (EL); 9. Austin Starr (IC) vs.

Danny Nation (BL); Sean Baker (Weir) vs. 8 Gage Adams (Mag); 5 Stevie Mitchell (WP) vs. Logan Cunningham (Wells); Austin Howard (HC) vs. 12 Austin DaRe (STC); Calvin Matthews (Univ) vs. Shyann Underwood (Shady); Gage Schwing (Cam) vs. 4 Gavin Quiocho (PS); 3 Jared Wright (BvL) vs. Jesse Law (Brk); Michael Flynn (Lin) vs. Rex Stewart (Camb); 11 Garrett Dozier (Tor) vs. Jordan Dalby (UL); Jacob Boulet (Barn) vs. 6 Collin Wiley (Cald); 7 Trey Wonner (CV) vs. Nick Macheca (Riv); Wesley Guy (Shen) vs. 10 Chase Ward (MF); D’Zayveon Richmond (Bpt) vs. Caden Schmidle (Morg); Trenton Klempa (Bell) vs. 2 Jacson Muldrew (Steub) 145—1 Brayden Roberts (PS) vs. TBD; Caleb McWhorter (UL) vs. Jeremy Brown (IC); 9 Isaac Ricketts (CV) vs. Jacob Anderson BL); Dylan Glotfelty (Barn) vs. 8 Brise Bennett (Univ); 5 Jonathan Creese (OG) vs. Julian Giovengo (Lin); Billy Baker (Shady) vs. 12 Wyatt VanDine (Bealls); Bryce Wade (HC) vs. Griffen Leonbruno (Morg); 4 Andrew Shelek (WP) vs. TBD; 3 Skyler Lasure (BvL) vs. TBD; Mason McCort (STC) vs. Joey Vincent (Shen); 11 Justin Sarge (Wells) vs. Michael Mosti (SL); Joe Duskey (FF) vs. 6 Zane Minella (Steub); 7 Christopher Helms (Weir) vs. Zack Hocutt (Riv); Jourdan Presto (Cam) vs. 10 Griffen Heatherington (Bell); Jacob Smith (Brk) vs. Zack Selby (Mead); 2 Alec Cook (Mad) vs. TBD 152—1 Anthony Rice (Steub) vs. TBD; Hunter Nevins (Riv) vs. Skyler Hatten (Bpt); 9 Garett Hostutler (Weir) vs. Corey Naylor (STC); Ben Mccardle (JM) vs. 8 Devon Keys (EL); 5 Dylan Milhoan (SL) vs. Gunner Kernik (Lin); Cordell Lingafelter (Mead) vs. 12 Cameron Woods (Barn); Zach Marbais (BL) vs. Michael Shreves (PC); 4 Mikey Shamblin (PS) vs. TBD; 3 Billy Gooch (WP) vs. TBD; Jayden Porter (Shen) vs. Ayden Krupinski (BL); 11 Cooper Kerns (Camb) vs. Tyler Donaher (MF); Nick Beckett (Bell) vs. 6 Mitch Wukelic (IC); 7 Braeden Pauley (Univ) vs. Seth Kerner (Wells); Colton Adams (Shady) vs. 10 Chris Parker (Tor); Deacan Carmichael (Cam) vs. Arch Newman (Brk); 2 Logan Krulik (BvL) vs. TBD

160—1 Zane Hinzman (PS) vs. Tyler Donahue (EL); Evan Daniels (Mad) vs. bye; 9 Max Camilletti (brk) vs. Frank Baker (FF); Hayden Wallace (HC) vs. 8 Chase Goff (MF); 5 Anthony Porter (Camb) vs. Wellings-Osha (Univ); Briar Portman (Shen) vs. 12 Reese Willis (Weir); Jacob Dean (CV) vs. bye; Brien Striker (ED) vs. 4 Ethan Pappas (Steub); 3 Mason Kuneff (Bpt) vs. Shamus Gibson (OG); Claude Romshak (UL) vs. bye; 11 Owen Oliver (Barn) vs. Cameron Franke (IC); Levi Turner (EL) vs. 6 Cody Albaugh (Bell); 7 Hunter Nixon (WP) vs. Jerald Unrein (Tor); Alex McCoy (PC) vs. Colton Dobbs (Cam); Jake McNemar (Wells) vs. bye; Alex Papadimitriou (Lin) vs. 2 Brenden Severs (BvL) 170—1Beau Smith (BvL) vs. Brandon Mamie (Bell); Mason Smith (Mad) vs. Preston Harmon (Morg); 9 Reese Skaggs (STC) vs. Neil Gibbons (Barn); Tucker Coultrap (HC) vs. 8 Wyatt Linder (PS); 5 Jeremiah Timberlake (WP) vs. Cyris Hill (Lin); Gavin Dondzila (IC) vs. 12 Latrelle Crute (SL); Tommy Mitchell (Cald) vs. Christopher Aubrey-Big (Tor); Justin Bartlett (Camb) vs. 4 Brandon Kinney (Steub); 3 Ian Bush (Cam) vs. Brody Rush (Mag); Briar Cunningham (Wells) vs. Wyatt Miley (Shen); 11 Kameron Hughes (MF) vs. Dylan Heinrich (OG); Jakob Klug (Shady) vs. 6 Jacob Berisford (JM); 7 Charles Smith (BL) vs. Will Miller (Univ); Jake Bolen (PC) vs. 10 William Hardenbrook (CV); Kohl Clark (UL) vs. Nicholas D’Amico (Weir); Dakota Isinghood (Brk) vs. 2 Tino Kusic (Bpt) 182—1 Anthony Carman (JM) vs. David Moore (Camb); Sean Murray (Univ) vs. bye; 9 James Dobbs (STC) vs. bye; 8 Dalton Fullerton (PS) vs. bye; 5 Logan Wilson (IC) vs. Garret Parsons (WP); 12 Blayne Erwin (HC) vs. bye; Julius Kirk (Shen) vs. bye; Christian Lesrussi (BvL) vs. 4 James Stillwagon (Mag); 3 Brylan Clouse (Barn) vs. James Beaver (PC); Fabian Egger (Lin) vs. bye; 11 Richard McFarland (MF) vs. bye; Shayne Christian (BL) vs. 6 Hunter Morris (SL); 7 Michael Hermann (SCC) vs. Vincent Patrone (Bell); 10 Mason Wiley (Cald) vs. bye; Caiden Adams (OG) vs. bye; Logan Walters (Weir) vs. 2 David Tuttle (Steub)

195—1Garrett Cook (Mad) vs. Thomas Lenhart (FF); Brandon Hiles (IC) vs. bye; 9 Kyler O’Connor (OG) vs. bye; 8 Dante Pelino (CV) vs. bye; 5 Drake Dobson (MF) vs. Austin Williams (Brk); 12 Nicholas Wukotich (BvL) vs. bye; Chandler Warner (Shen) vs. bye; Liam O’Coonor (Morg) vs. 4 Derek Witsberger (STC); 3 Keith Bodnar (Steub) vs. Jack Reese (BL); Khol Mobelini (Camb) vs. bye; Josh Croft (HC) vs. bye; Noah Buckalew (PS) vs. 6 Jermain Snodgrass (WP); 7 Sam Lowe (SL) vs. Cooper Smith (ED); 10 Josh Sanders (Univ) vs. bye; Cameron McClure (JM) vs. bye; Cameron Stillwagon (Mag) vs. 2 Donavan Kirby (Weir) 220-1 Braxton Amos (PS) vs. Ryan Cross (PC); Caden Weekley (Wells) vs. bye; 9 Chance Knight (Lin) vs. Evan Merryman (IC); Tim Chesar (Mead) vs. 8 Zac Cesario (BL); 5 Justice McCamick (STC) vs. Stephen Hunter (Brk); 12 Devin Danhart (Bpt) vs. bye; D.J. Wetherell (SCC) vs. bye; Michael Tizziani (Tor) vs. 4 Skylor Wooley (EL); 3 Dylan Wood (WP) vs. Jaden Hale (FF); Xavier Hannahs (Cald) vs. bye; 11 Tyler Yost (Morg) vs. Zakary Dobson (MF); Peyton Tuttle (Steub) vs. 8 Garret Givens (BvL); 7 Dalton Rice (Shen) vs. Kolten Harlin (ED); Jacob Honeywell (Shady) vs. 10 Zack Meade (Barn); Dalton Rothwell (CV) vs. bye; Logan Ellis (HC) vs. 2 Bradlee Clark (JM) 285—1 Louden Haga (PS) vs. TBD; Caden Honeywell (Shady) vs. Neville Kruger (Lin); 9 Trey Delguzzo (STC vs. C.J. Rose (WC); Austin Baumgartner (FF) vs. 8 Brady Williams (JM); 5 Easton Hitchens (Shen) vs. Hayden Hoge (Cam); Stephen Craig (SL) vs. 12 Kaz Zubay (EL); Wyatt Babik (CV) vs. Jason Peebles (Mead); Daniel Rawson (Brk) vs. 4 Emanual Ware (Steub); 3 Donte Lewis (MF) vs. Cole English (OG); Joseph Hoepfner (Bell) vs. Nicholas Wilson (Mad); 11 Mikey Hamrick (Mag) vs. Avery Clouse (Barn); Nathan Zink (IC) vs. 6 Josh Fancher (Tor); 7 Calvin McGaha (WP) vs. Brett Long (Camb); T.J. Wehr (Cald) vs. 10 Cody Gamble (HC); Tommy Thompson (ED) vs. Dylan Haseleu (Morg); Corbin Turney (Univ) vs. 2 Daniel Wirth (BvL)

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 20

PICTURED IS the 201819 Shadyside wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Shyann Underwood, Billy Baker, Devon Robinson, Brendon Schrader and Jakob Klug. Back row, from left, are assistant coach Billy Johnson, Robert Klopp, Mason Geraud, Caden Honeywell, Jalob Honeywell and head coach Chase Kinemond.

Photo/PAUL KRAJNYAK

Kinemond leading young Tigers

Good Luck

By SETH STASKEY

Shadyside Wrestlers!

Times Leader Sports Editor

“WANT CAREER SUCCESS? GET CAREER SKILLS!”

SHADYSIDE — Chase Kinemond was introduced to the giant Ron Mauck OVAC Wrestling Tournament at a very young age. After growing up as a fan and going to the tournament and then competing in it during his prep career, Kinemond will return to the WesBanco Arena mats this weekend, but he won’t be wearing a singlet.

Good Luck All Area Wrestlers!

www.BHCCenters.com BELMONT CAREER CENTER

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(740) 695-9130

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740-676-1611

Kinemond is set to lead the Shadyside Tigers onto the mats as he’s ascended to the program’s head coach, replacing Sean Grinch, who stepped down after a highly impressive tenure. “I am excited to be back at the OVACs,” Kinemond said. “So far, (coaching) is everything I thought it would be. There really hasn’t been anything that’s caught me off guard.” The team that Kinemond has inherited is young in experience and lacks numbers, which is proven by the fact that they’ll only fill five weight classes when the tournament opens Thursday evening. “We have a very young team,” Kinemond said. “Our most experienced wrestler has only been involved with the sport for three years and he’s been battling some injuries. Everyone else is basically a first-year wrestler. It started out pretty rough, but the kids are getting better each day, which is all I can ask for as a coach.” Shadyside, which has been in the Class 1A/2A title hunt perenially, is simply looking to do as well as it can. If the limited roster wasn’t enough, none of the Shadyside entrants have a winning record. “Our kids are probably going to be facing some tough (opening-round) matches because of their records, but I See, TIGERS, Page 21

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 21

2019 OVAC Ron Mauck Tournament Seeds 106—1. Alex Overly (Shen., 10, 22-1); 2. Jaymin Salsberry (BvL, 9, 12-7); 3. Danny Yost (Brk, 11, 16-7); 4. Carl Cochran (JM, 9, 21-8); 5. Jarrett Stillion (Mead, 10, 17-6); 6. Griffen Stephen (Barn., 9, 11-5); 7. Cody Taggart (WP, 9, 21-7); 8. Gannon Kazmirski (STC, 9, 177); 9. Samantha Miller (PS, 11, 19-12); 10. Anthony Shevlin (Steub., 9, 12-11) 113—1. Howard Williams (EL, 10, 16-4; 2. Jace Stockett (Univ., 11, 14-6); 3. Shawn Moore (OG, 12, 20-3); 4. Nate Shelek (WP, 9, 23-4); 5. Marshal Niswonger (Cald, 12, 18-3); 6. Devin Easton (PS, 10, 18-9); 7. Mark Emmerling Jr. (BvL, 9, 19-4); 8. Eric Reed (Camb., 10, 6-2); 9. Gabe Carman )JM, 9, 22-7); 10. Christopher Heavner (Riv, 10, 17-7) 120—1. Logan Ours (BvL, 9, 10-3); 2. Koen Kish (STC, 10, 23-1); 3. Terry Gattrell (Mead, 12, 20-2); 4. Brayden Johnson (PS, 10, 20-9); 5. Matthew Simpson (Univ, 12, 28-4); 6. Aaron Ferguson (Steub, 10, 13-3_; 7. Ethan Gray (JM, 11, 20-9); 8. Joseph Bonfini (Bell, 12-, 12-3); 9. Maison Richard-

son (BL, 12, 21-7); 10. Kaleb Bailey (EL, 10, 9-3); 126—1. Cole McComas (BvL, 11, 19-4); 2. Peyton Blasko (Steub, 12, 19-2); 3. Jake Staud (Univ, 11, 14-0); 4. Tucker Windland (PS, 12, 188); 5. Gavin Ray (OG, 10, 20-8); 6. Derek Houser (CV, 12, 20-5); 7. Wyatt Conley (Weir, 11, 274); 8. Chance Woolley (SL, 9, 16-6); 9. Aubrey Antill (Camb, 12, 15-6); 10. Jason Tice (Eells, 11, 13-6) 132—1. Jacob Simpson (Univ, 12, 30-2); 2. Tyler Muldrew (Steub., 10, 13-4); 3. Jonathon Potts (BvL, 10, 182); 4. Brian Palmer Jr. (BL, 1021-8); 5. Hayden Johnson (ED, 11, 18-3); 6. Caden Kenworthy (Camb, 9, 5-1); 7. Ryley Crall (UL, 12, 3-1); 8. Caden Stout (STC, 9, 19-4); 9. Canon Welker (WP, 11, 15-4); 10. Austin Love (JM, 12, 18-9) 138—1. Peyton Hall (OG, 11, 27-2); 2. Jacson Muldrew (Steub, 12, 21-3); 3. Jared Wright (BvL, 12, 17-6); 4. Gavin Quicho (PS, 10, 27-6); 5. Stevie Mitchell (WP, 12, 2030; 6. Collin Wiley (Cald, 11, 19-5); 7. Trey Wonner (SL, 12,

20-3); 8. Gage Adams (Mag, 12, 21-1); 9. Austin Love (JM, 12, 18-9); 10. Chase Ward (MF, 11, 12-3) 145—1. Brayden Roberts (PS, 11, 29-4); 2. Alec Cook (Mad, 12, 34-1); 3. Skyler Lasure (BvL, 9, 6-14); 4. Andrew Shelek (WP, 11, 26-2); 5. Jonathan Creese (OG, 11, 19-5); 6. Zane Minella (Steub., 12, 16-10); 7. Christopher Helms (Brk., 12, 22-10); 8. Brise Bennett (Univ., 12, 26-9); 9. Isaac Ricketts (CV, 12, 20-5); 10. Griffen Heatherington (Bell, 12, 18-5) 152—1. Anthony Rice (Steub, 12, 24-2); 2. Logan Krulik (BvL, 10, 18-3); 3. Billy Gooch (WP, 10, 17-4); 4. Mikey Shamblin, (PS, 12, 17-8); 5. Dylan Milhoan (SL, 11, 19-5); 6. Mitch Wukelic (IC, 12, 12-2); 7. Braeden Pauley (Univ., 12, 294); 8. Devon Keys (EL, 10, 102); 9. Garet Hostutler (Weir, 12, 25-7); 10. Chris Parker (Tor, 10, 18-6) 160—1. Zane Hinzman (PS, 12, 28-5); 2. Brenden Severs (BvL, 9, 21-5); 3. Mason Kuneff (Bpt., 12, 27-2); 4. Ethan Pappas (ED, 10, 22-4); 5. An-

• Tigers Continued from Page 20 am just hoping they go and compete well,” Kinemond said. Along with a handful of duals and tris, Shadyside has competed in tournaments at Weir and Tyler as well as its own Last Man Standing Tournament earlier this month. “We need to continue to get mat time,” Kinemond said. “We’re obviously not a dual team, but the teams we’ve faced, we match up well with in terms of weight classes, so our guys are getting matches, which is what they need.” Shadyside will have an entrant at 132, 138, 145, 170, 220 and 285. At 132, sophomore Brendan Schrader gets the call. He’s been slowed by injuries this season and will be in the lineup. He’s just 3-4 on the season. Freshman Billy Baker will enter at 145. He’s one of those first-year grapplers, who is experiencing some growing pains in a tough weight class. Junior Jacob Klug will represent the Orange and Black at 170. He’s in his first season with the team and sports just a 3-8

record. The Brothers Honeywell are at 220 and 285 pounds, respectively. Sophomore Jalob Honeywell, who came out for the team late, is making his tournament debut this weekend. Meanwhile, his older brother, Kaden, has posted four wins thus far at 285. Freshman Shyann Underwood will enter at 138. Tigers who are part of the team, but won’t be competing this weekend for one reason or another include: freshman Devon Robinson, freshman Robert Klopp, who is the lone Tiger who has placed at an event; Colton Adams and sophomore Mason Geraud. After the OVAC dust settles, Shadyside will compete in tournaments at Williamstown and Buckeye Local before preparing for the Division III sectional tournament. Kinemond is being assisted by another ex-Tiger standout, Billy Johnson. Jim Osman spearheads the junior high program.

thony Porter (Camb, 11, 15-4); 6. Cody Albaugh (Bell, 11, 166); 7. Hunter Nixon, WP, 9, 157); 8. Chase Goff (MF, 10, 142); 9. Max Camilletti (Brk., 11, 20-7); 10. Colton Dobbs (Cam, 12, 18-3) 170—1. Beau Smith (BvL, 12, 22-6); 2. Tino Kusic (Bpt., 12, 23-0); 3. Ian Bush (Cam, 9, 203); 4. Brandon Kinney (Steub, 9, 10-5); 5. Jeremiah Timberlake (WP, 12, 21-8); 6. Jacob Berisford (Jm, 12, 24-7); 7. Charles Smith (BL, 11, 13-5); 8. Wyatt Linder (PS, 12, 1611); 9. Reese Skaggs (STC, 10, 12-10); 10. William Hardenbrook (CV, 10, 14-5) 182—1. Anthony Carman (JM, 12, 29-2); 2. David Tuttle (Steub., 11, 23-2); 3. Brylan Clouse (Barn, 12, 4-0); 4. James Stillwagoner (Mag, 11, 20-3); 5. Logan Wilson (IC, 12, 19-2); 6. Hunter Morris (SL, 10, 18-7); 7. Michael Hermann (SCC, 12, 16-5); 8. Dalton Fullerton (PS, 12, 1515); 9. James Dobbs (STC, 11, 16-6); 10. Mason Wiley (Cald, 12, 12-7) 195—1. Garrett Cook (Mad, 12, 32-0); 2. Donavan Kirby

(Weir, 12, 10-2); 3. Keith Bodnar (Steub, 11, 24-5); 4. Derek Witsberger (STC, 11, 22-2); 5. Drake Dobson (MF, 12, 13-2); 6. Jermain Snodgrass (WP, 12, 16-10); 7. Sam Lowe, SL, 10, 19-5); 8. Dante Pelino (CV, 12, 9-0); 9. Kyler O’Connor (OG, 10, 21-5); 10. Josh Sanders (Univ, 11, 25-9) 220—1. Braxton Amos (PS, 11, 33-0); 2. Bradlee Clark (JM, 11, 23-2); 3. Dylan Wood (WP, 12, 25-1); 4. Skylor Wooley (EL, 11, 16-6); 5. Justice McCamick (STC, 12, 21-4); 6. Garrett Givens (BvL, 12, 12-1); 7. Dalton Rice (Shen, 12, 20-5); 8. Zac Cesario (BL, 11, 16-6); 9. Chance Knight (Lin, 11, 175); 10. Zack Meade (Barn, 12, 12-4) 285—1. Louden Haga (PS, 12, 28-5); 2. Daniel Wirth (BvL, 11, 18-5); 3. Donte Lewis (MF, 11, 15-1); 4. Emanual Ware (Steub., 11, 18-3); 5. Easton Hitchens (Shen, 11, 19-5); 6. Josh Fancher (Tor, 9, 19-10); 7. Calvin McGaha (WP, 12, 178); 8. Brady Williams, (JM, 12, 26-5); 9. Trey Delguzzo (STC, 12, 16-7); 10. Cody Gamble (HC, 12, 11-4)

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 22

PICTURED IS the 201819 St. Clairsville wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Brady Roth, Clay Espen, Kaitlyn Roth, Gannon Kazmirski and Josh DeNoble. Second row, from left, are Jaiden Springer, Koen Kish, Quintin Elerick, Caden Stout, Mason McCort and Corey Naylor. Back row, from left, are head coach Joel Sansone, assistant coach Rick DaRe’, Austin DaRe’, James Dobbs, Reese Skaggs, Trey DelGuzzo, Derek Witsberger, Justice McCamick, Andrew Elerick, assistant coach Dillon Nolte and assistant coach Bobby Richmond.

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Sansone wants St. Clairsville to be pleased, but not satisfied

Good Luck St. Clairsville Wrestlers!

By SETH STASKEY

Times Leader Sports Editor

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However, there is still a lot of season left, beginning this weekend with the annual Ron Mauck OVAC Wrestling Tournament, which opens Thursday at WesBanco Arena. Because of what lies ahead, Sansone has cautioned his team to “be pleased, but not satisfied.” “Our kids have battled and risen to the occassion so far,” Sansone said. “The way we look (at the season) is the OVAC is kind of the middle portion of the mountain and we want to continue the steady climb.” The Red Devils have certainly tested themselves in the first half of that climb. Despite a late start because the football season stretched into the middle of November, St. C. has competed at the North Canton Hoover tournament where it finished 13th overall and it won its own America’s Best Value Inn Tournament after Christmas. “We left North Canton with a little bit of a sour taste in our mouths,” Sansone admitted. “We had five placers and we had two others who were really close. We felt like we were right there. And if a few matches go the other way, we’re probably looking at a top five team finish.” On top of the tournaments, the Red Devils made the trip to Parkersburg and took on South in a dual. “I looked at that as a great opportunity,” Sansone said. See, ST. C., Page 23

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 23

• St. C. Continued from Page 22 “We went down there and won five of the 13 matches, and I’ll take that against them. I think our kids know they can compete at that level now.” Just last weekend, St. Clairsville made the trip to South Side High School near Pittsburgh and picked up five more victories, but finished second in the overall team race because of criteria points. “We’ve had a good last week-and-a-half or so,” Sansone said. “We took some time off and really got back in the (practice) room and worked on some things and we had some good, hard conditioning. We feel like we’re ready to go (for the OVAC).” The Red Devils, who had three placers, finished 13th overall with 91.5 points. Though, Sansone believes his team is better positioned to score and place more, making a push for the 4A crown will be tough with Beaver Local in the mix. “I think we stack up well and could have the most placers since I’ve been the head coach,” the ninth-year mentor said. “I really think Beaver Local can win the whole thing because they’re so solid from top to bottom. It’s going to come down to who shows up. We probably need to beat some kids we aren’t supposed to beat.” The Red Devils will fill 13 of the 14 weight classes this weekend with only 160 left vacant. St. Clairsville is led by talented sophomore Koen Kish. A bronze medalist in the conference tourney a season ago, Kish is 23-1 on the season with his lone loss coming in the final at North Canton. He was the winner of the Delande Brothers Most Outstanding Wrestler award at the St. C. event after finishing 8-0, all of which came via a pin in the

first period. “I honestly believe there isn’t a tournament that he can’t win,” he said. “When he goes out and wresltes, he’s fine. Sometimes he’s his own biggest opponent.” Senior Justice McCamick resides at 220 and has had a brilliant opening portion of the season. He’s currently 21-4. He was the runnerup at St. C. and was fourth at North Canton. “Justice has just missed placing (in the OVAC) the last two years, and he’s hungry,” Sansone said. Junior Derek Witsberger is the Devils’ entrant at 195 pounds. He’s been “steadily improving” according to his head coach. Currently, he’s 22-2 and narrowly missed placing at North Canton and was the champion at St. C. Junior Quinton Eler ick resides at 126 and is a returning OVAC placer. He’s currently 15-7, but Sansone believes his ledger isn’t indictative of the type of season he’s putting forth. “He’s had some bad luck,” Sansone said. “And he’s ran into some serious competition in that weight class, so his losses have all come to good people.” Freshman Caden Stout will make his OVAC debut at 132 pounds. Sporting a strong 19-4 record, Stout was the champion at the St. C. Tournament. Sophomore Austin DaRe is dropping down to 138 after spending much of the season at 145. He’s 18-6 and is coming off a championship at St. C. Junior Corey Naylor will get the call at 152. He narrowly missed placing last season and Sansone believes he’s due for a break-out tourney.

T-L Photo/KIM NORTH

ST. CLAIRSVILLE’S Derek Witsberger, top, is seeded fourth at 195 pounds.

Sophomore Reese Skaggs 170 pounder is 12-10 and has been battling some ill- was runnerup at their own ness during the early portion event. of the season. The Devils’ Junior James Dobbs was

third at St. C. at 182 and is currently 16-6. Sansone believes he has the ability to place, but putting it all together will be paramount for him. Senior Trey DelGuzzo is the 285-pound entrant. He’s 16-7 and was fourth at St. C. Freshman Gannon Ka zmirski has been solid at 106. He’s currently 17-7 despite giving up some weight. Sophomore Josh DeNoble is at 113 and is 12-5. Freshman Mason McCort will enter at 145 pounds. Others vying for a spot in the lineup are Jaiden Springer, Andrew Elerick, Cameron Dunsil and Clay Espen. “If our kids continues to wrestle like they have, I

think they can exceed expectations,” Sansone said. “We need to step onto the mat ready to compete and not get caught up in names, records or what the school across from us is. We’re a young and hungry team.” Regardless of what happens at the OVAC, St. Clairsville’s climb will continue leading up to the Division II sectional. It’s scheduled to take part in the OHSAA duals, the Brooke Classic, the Buckeye 8 at Union Local and if it qualifies in the top four, the OVAC Duals. Working with Sansone are Bobby Richmond, Dillon Nolte and Rick DaRe works with the high school and junior high.

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 24

PICTURED IS the 201819 Union Local wrestling team. Front row, from left, are Dakota Wells, Caleb McWhorter, Mat Stat Kiya Wiseman, Mat Stat Faith Brandon, Nathaniel Gibson and Colin Greenwood. Second row, from left, are Aiden Myers, Kohl Clark, Brady Crum and Claude Romshak. Back row, from left, are assistant coach Justin Jefferis, Jordan Dalby, Bryson Utter, Ryley Crall and head coach Zack Powell.

Photo/PAUL KRAJNYAK

Union Local might be young, but it works hard By SETH STASKEY

Powell is in the midst of his He’s quite fond of his third season at the helm of team, calling it, “the hardest the Union Local wrestling working group” he’s had in MORRISTOWN — Zack program. his tenure. However, he also admits that his Jets are young and experiencing some growing pains. Add it all up, as it pertains to this weekend’s Ron Mauck OVAC Wrestling Tournament, and the Jets are hopeful of a good showing with the expectation of continuing to gain experience as they continue to build toward the future. “We’re young,” Pow ell said. “We have some freshmen in our lineup and a couple of sophomores and juniors. We’re getting through it and learning every day.” The Jets have “seen imwww.BHCCenters.com provements” since they first competed in their own BELMONT CAREER HARRISON CAREER Rick Link Invitational in CENTER December. They’ve also CENTER 82500 Cadiz Jewett Rd., competed in tournaments at 68090 Hammond Rd., Barnesville and Coshocton. Cadiz, Ohio St. Clairsville, Ohio On top of those, they’ve (740) 942-2148 (740) 695-9130 tangled with Cambridge,

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Crestview, Edgewood and Bellaire in dual settings. “There have been some growing pains, but our kids are battling and getting better,” Powell said. “We’re making up for any lack of experience with hard work. Though we’ll more experienced, we’re still going to be young next year, too.” When the OVAC opens Thursday evening at WesBanco Arena, the Jets, who are in competing in Class 3A, will fill eight of the 14 weight classes. “We have 11 kids on the team, but eight of them are bunched up around the same weight class,” Powell said. “We just can’t fill those other weight classes because of weight. It’s unfortunate that a few of the kids won’t get to compete, but it’s just how it falls for us.” Though Union Local won’t have an entrant at 113, 126, 182, 195, 220 and 285, the areas in which it does enter, Powell feels like a couple of his grap-

plers could be in the mix for a spot on the podium Saturday night. “We have some guys back who have experienced some success (in the OVAC),” Powell pointed out. “I think two of our three seniors have placed in previous years. And we think we have a couple of other potential placers.” Senior Ryley Crall leads the way for the Jets at 132 pounds. He’s returning to the lineup this week after having been out since the Link Tournament. He’s currently 3-1 on the season and has two OVAC places on his resume, including a fifth as a junior and sixth as a sophomore. “We’re happy to have Ryley back and I think he’s itching to get back out there,” Powell said. Senior Jordan Dalby gets the call at 138. He’s currently 10-4 and placed seventh at the OVAC in 2017. He was sixth at Coshocton. Freshman Collin Green

wood continues to draw high praise from his coach at 106 pounds. He’s currently 3-8 on the season, but, according to Powell, wrestles at just 82 pounds, meaning he’s giving up a significant amount of weight. Freshman Nathaniel Gibson owns a seventh place finish at Coshocton at 120 pounds. He’s currently 6-9 on the season and is “improving each week,” according to Powell. Caleb McWhorter and senior Brycen Utter are at 145 and 152, respectively. McWhorter — a freshman — is 7-6 on the season. Sophomore Claude Romshak is the entrant at 160 pounds. He owns a 10-12 record in just his third season of organized wrestling. Junior Kohl Clark is back out for the sport for the first time since he was in junior high and is currently 5-3 at 170 pounds. The Jets’ lineup took a hit when it was determined See, UNION, Page 25

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 25

T-L File Photo/KIM NORTH

BEAVER LOCAL’S Cole McComas, right, is seeking his third title this weekend. The junior is also a two-time Ohio state runnerup in Division II.

GOOD LUCK

T-L Photo/KIM NORTH

STEUBENVILLE’S ANTHONY Rice, right, has control of Wheeling Park’s Billy Gooch during a recent dual meet at 152 pounds. Rice is seeking his second title, while Gooch is seeded third.

• Union Continued from Page 24 that sophomore Brady Crum wouldn’t compete this week. He’s been battling a toe injury since football season and he finally opted to have it repaired. Powell is hopeful that he’s able to be back in the lineup by the postseason. “It was a tough decision for him, but the ultimate goal is the state tournament and he just missed out on making it there last season,” Powell said. Rounding out the Jets’ roster are freshmen Aiden Myers and Dakota Wells. The Jets lost state qualifier Kade Clark, Braden Robinson and Chris Rinehart to graduation in 2018. Plenty of season remains between the OVAC and the start of the sectional tournament for the Jets. They’re hosting the Buckeye 8 Tournament and will compete at the Buckeye Local Invitational. They also have a dual with rival Barnesville and a triangular against Harrison Central and Shadyside. Powell is assisted by Justin Jefferis and Buck Meyers coaches the junior high squad.

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OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Photo Provided

Wheeling Park hasn’t missed a beat with new head coach

PICTURED IS the 2018-19 Wheeling Park wrestling team. Team members include Calvin McGaha, Daniel Skelton, Dylan Wood, Jermain Snodgrass, Jeremiah Timberlake, Macayla Hunter, Maison Richardson, William Birch, Andrew Shelek, Canon Welker, Devon Holley, Garret Parson, Billy Gooch, Charlie Tamburin, Eli Kutrovac, Stevie Mitchell, Quinten Hibbs, Cody By KIM NORTH Walsh, Cody Taggart, Hayden Lewis, Hunter Nixon, Times Leader Sports Writer Khaleb Webb, Nate Shelek, Robert Coffman and WHEELING — Despite another Gauge Richards. Coaches are Brian Leggett (head) and assistants Todd Shelek, Clay Tucker, Jack Doyle, head coaching change, Wheeling Park hasn’t missed a beat this season and Danny Doyle and Justin Goneau. will once again challenge for the team and Class 5A championships when the 66th annual Ohio Valley Athletic Conference Ron Mauck Wrestling Tournament opens a three-day stay inside WesBanco Arena Thursday night. Brian Leggett has taken over the Patriots’ reins from Clay Tucker, Custom Signs, Banners, & Awards of all Kinds who was a successful head coach for three years, who stepped aside when he took a job outside the school dis2245 Main St., trict. Tucker, however, remains on Wheeling, West Virginia 26003 the staff as an assistant. “Our program is excited and ready to compete at the OVAC Wrestling Tournament,” Leggett, who was an assistant at West Liberty University prior to accepting his current position, said. “It is always an event that is highlighted on our schedule and year after year Wheeling Park has put the best lineup out there on the mat in an attempt to win the tournament. “Our guys don’t need a lot of motivation for this tournament. Most of them, who have been wrestling since a young age, have always dreamed about wrestling in the OVAC finals at WesBanco Arena,” he continued. “For them, winning an OVAC title is only second to winning a state title.

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Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 26

“As a first-year coach at Wheeling Park and growing up wrestling in Pennsylvania, I am new to the OVAC tournament, but I am excited to get the opportunity to compete and start in this long, honored tradition in the Ohio Valley.” The Patriots, who finished fifth last year as a team, are a youthful, but talented, bunch. Of the 13 individuals in the lineup — the Red, White and Blue will not enter at 126 — three are freshmen and a trio of sophomores. Five battle-tested seniors and a pair of juniors round out the roster. Senior Dylan Wood (220) was a runnerup last year to Parkersburg South’s Braxton Amos. Wood picked up his 100th career victory earlier this season and was third in West Virginia last winter. He is currently 23-1 and ranked second by OVAeC and fourth in the state. He finished eighth at 220 as a sophomore. Other seniors are Maison Richardson (120), Jeremiah Timberlake (170), Jermain Snodgrass (195) and Calvin McGaha (285). Richardson, 20-6, is a three-time OVAC Tournament placewinner. He was sixth at the same weight a year ago; seventh at 120 as a sophomore; and eighth at 106 as a frosh. He is ranked sixth by OVAeC and eighth in the state. Timberlake, 20-7, placed eighth as a sophomore at 138. He is the top-rated wrestler in his weight class

in W.Va. and is ranked No. 4 by OVAeC. Snodgrass, 15-9, is fifth in the OVAeC rankings and 10th in W.Va. McGaha, 16-7, is ranked third in W.Va. and seventh by OVAeC. The junior class includes Canon Welker (132) and Andrew Shelek (145). Welker, 14-4, is ranked No. 8 in W.Va. and by OVAeC. Shelek, 24-2, is a returning state runnerup who has overcome a pair of knee injuries during his young career. He is ranked No. 5 by OVAeC and is No. 2 in W.Va. Sophomores are Stevie Mitchell (138), Billy Gooch (152) and Garret Parson (182). Mitchell, 20-4, placed seventh last winter at the same weight and will look to make some noise again. He is ranked fifth by OVAeC and fifth in W.Va. Gooch, 16-3, finished eighth at 132 last season. He is No. 3 in the OVAeC rankings and second in the state. The three freshmen have all made an impact this season. They are Cody Taggart (106), Nate Shelek (113) and Hunter Nixon (160). Taggart, 19-7, has competed some at 113 and fared well as a first-year varsity performer. Shelek, 23-3, was a runnerup at 110 pounds in the W.Va. Jr. High See, PARK, Page 27

OVAC WRESTLING

The Times Leader ¯

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 ¯ 27

TOP LEFT: Wheeling Park’s Dylan Wood finished second at 220 pounds last year. He is seeded third this season. BOTTOM LEFT: Wheeling Park’s Andrew Shelek will be wrestling in his first OVAC Tournament after suffering knee injuries the past two seasons. He was a Class AAA state runnerup last winter. Photos/KIM NORTH

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CORNER BARBER & STYLING We Specialize In Military Cuts & Flat Tops.

• Park Continued from Page 26 state tournament last year. Nixon, 14-7, won the 155-pound junior high state championship. “Our team is poised to compete for the team title this year. Our guys have really wrestled well in tough tournaments this year, racking up a lot of bonus points,” Leggett noted. “We are a good dual meet team, but I believe we are an even better

tournament team. Parkersburg South and Beaver Local are two tough teams this year with solid lineups. We will have to wrestle to the best of our potential in all of our weight classes. “It’s going to be a fun, exciting three days of wrestling.” Wheeling Park has won the team title six times and the Class 5A crown once.

Sophia, Lisa, Heather, Maria & Annie

Wheeling Park High School offers Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Track, Wrestling, Softball, Volleyball, Competitive Dance, Hockey, and Lacrosse.

Open: Tues.-Fri. 8am-7pm Saturday 8am-4pm

304.242.8225

2131 National Road, Wheeling