The MUS wrestling team traveled to Clarksville on February 3 and 4 for the State Duals after having claimed second place at the regional duals for the sixth consecutive time.
Despite competing hard, the Owls lost both of their matches at state as they battled eventual state-champion McCallie and Nashville-power Father Ryan. Even with the losses, the squad claimed seventh place overall.
In their match against McCallie, the Owls put up 15 points, getting pins from senior Mason George (189) and sophomore Sam Goldstein (152) and a 4-2 point win from senior Cameron Ridgway (135).
Then, against the Fightin’ Irish, MUS fell, 57-21, as they got pins from George (189) and junior Mac McCormack (130), a forfeit victory from freshman Mason Gudelsky (112), and Ridgway’s (135) 11-10 point win.
Despite the two setbacks, head coach Shaun Gehres and the staff are pleased with where the program is currently.
“The main goal for us right now is to improve competition that West Tennessee brings to the State level, and I think we’re doing that,” said Gehres, who recognizes that the wrestling powerhouses from Middle and East Tennessee are on a higher level right now than West Tennessee.
This weekend, the Owls travel to Chattanooga to compete in the State Individual Tournament. This week is all about getting the Owl wrestlers motivated for themselves. The team generally views the atmosphere at the individual competition much more laid back, and MUS coaches are excited that a handful of Owls have the potential to place this season.