Trojan wrestlers take SES dual tourney title

Written by Don Ratzlaff Tuesday, 06 February 2007 18:00

The Hillsboro wrestling team used its strength in numbers to win all four of its dual matchups at the annual Southeast of Saline Dual Tournament on Saturday.

The Trojans filled 11 of the 14 weight classes while three of the other four participating teams left five or more classes open.

Hillsboro defeated Southeast of Saline (1-3) 54-20, Remington (2-2) 60-17, Russell (3-1) 38-26 and Oskaloosa (0-4) 42-34.

"Although I was a little disappointed that some of the teams we competed against were not very full, it was nice to win the tournament championship outright by winning all four duals," coach Scott O'Hare said.

"A few of the guys were only able to pick up one or two matches on the day, but a few of them got to wrestle three or four."

The four wins gave Hillsboro a 10-1 record in duals this season.

"We continue to improve on some of the mistakes we have been making, and at times, see some very good things happening on the mat," O'Hare said.

"There were a couple of things we really focused on in practice this past week that really paid off in some matches. A few of the guys are really starting to wrestle with some confidence, and it shows. A few others are still a little tentative and hesitant. That is the one thing we continue to focus on and try to improve.

"If this entire group would recognize the abilities they have and simply put everything on the line, every match, I think we could have a good number of wrestlers competing in (the state tournament at) Hays in late February."

Hillsboro will wrap up its dual season Thursday with matches at home against Lyons and Haven.

"We are excited to finally have an opportunity to wrestle at home," O'Hare said. Action begins at 5:30 p.m.

The Trojans will compete at the Remington Invitational on Saturday as a final tune-up prior to regionals on Feb. 16-17. Matches at Remington will begin at 9:30 a.m.

"Our goal is to repeat as tournament team champions and bring home the championship plaque," O'Hare said.

"This would really have us riding high going into the regional tournament."