Indian wrestlers step up at Viking Smash Duals

by Jamie Harris
For most of the wrestling season, Coach Darrell Bennett’s squad has been competing with small numbers due to injuries and illnesses. Finally, for the first time all year, the Indians were able to fill eight weight classes which meant they had a better chance to win team dual matches instead of forfeiting more than half of its weight classes.

At the Viking Smash Duals, the Indians went 3-2 on the first day and then finished a perfect 5-0 on the second day of competition to finish the duals at 8-2. An impressive performance for the eight members who wear the Indian wrestling singlet in their quest for a state championship.

Leading the way for the Tribe with a perfect two day mark of 10-0 and in first place were: Matt Parkinson (220) who ran his record to 38-1, Billy Wilson (126) who improved to 39-9 and Josh Capps (138) who is now 13-5.

Second place and a 9-1 mark went to Ben King (106) who is now 19-7 and Kyle Shambaugh (195) 16-3.
Third place and an 8-2 mark went to Matt Marshall (132) and is now 17-21 and CJ Capps (145), 182 lb. Bailey Fox did not place, but went 6-4 for the weekend.

Next up for the Indians is the PVC Championships which will be held at Jefferson High School on February 2.

Team scores
Day 1: (3-2)
BSHS 48 - Phillip Barbour 24
BSHS 34 - Frankfort 24
BSHS 39 - Liberty 12
BSHS 33 - Keyser 53
BSHS 30 - Lincoln 54

Day 2: (5-0)
BSHS 46 - Grafton 24
BSHS 30 - Petersburg 27
BSHS 42 - Moorefield 24
BSHS 54 - Robert C. Byrd 12
BSHS 48 - Notre Dame 18