FORT SCOTT — While the Allen County Wrestling Club members brought home another armload of top-five finishes Saturday, the wrestlers’ participation in the Fort Scott Open/Novice Tournament was one of the toughest in the club’s history.
Two werestlers, Jeremy Ridge and Kendall Jay, exited the competition due to injury.
“I have been coaching for 17 years, and this is the first time I have ever had a wrestler injured,” coach John Taylor said. “It is something I hope we never experience again.”
Ridge, who was entered in both 10-and-under and 12-and-under events, suffered an ankle injury, Taylor said. Jay hurt his elbow.
Injuries aside, Taylor said he was pleased with the wrestling club’s performance and effort.
“Overall, the kids competed very well,” Taylor said. “Again, we are wrestling harder every week, and it shows.”
Earning top honors in their divisions were Ryan West, Korbin Cloud, William Jay, T.J. Taylor, Clay Shannon and Seth Sanford.
Taking home second place finishes were Landon Boldra, Curt Shannon, Payton Houk, Alejandro Vargas, Trenton Jones, Logan Brown and Jack Adams.
Bringing home third place awards were Cole Mathes, Konner Larney, Tripp Chapman, Brandon McKarnin, Briar Holding, Adam Atwell, R.J. Holding and the injured Kendall Jay.
Fourth-place finishers were Jaaron Griffin and Cooper Riley.
Placing fifth were Creed Shannon, Eli Adams and Casey McKarnin.
Allen County wrestlers’ tourney success bittersweet
