By Katrina Lockwood

Published: March 6, 2008

Madison County’s wrestling squad competed in the Region B tournament Feb. 23 capturing a third place finish out of the 15 teams participating. With only Manassas Park’s Cougars and Strasburg’s Rams ahead of the Mountaineers, in first and second place respectively, Madison advanced seven out of 10 wrestlers to the state championship.

“I thought the kids really battled and gave a lot of effort,” said Madison Coach Mike Sacra. “[It was] a good overall wrestling day.”

Tyler Atwell (135) came away as the Region B champion in his weight class after beating out Strasburg’s Prince in a 3-2 decision, following an 18-8 major decision in the semi-final round against Buffalo Gap’s Hawkins.
Robert Meador, the Region B runner-up in the 125-pound weight class, lost in the final round 3-2 to Strasburg’s Hall after beating out Appomattox’s Ianaca 16-1 by technical fault. Madison’s Danny Oktayuren (152), also came away as the Region B runner-up in his weight class, while Brent Broyles (160) earned a third place finish after losing in the semi-final round, but winning in the consolation finals. Ethan O’Connell, after winning in the consolation semi-finals, finished fourth place in the 119-pound weight class. Baxter Helmick (140), also finished fourth place, securing a spot in the state championship as well. Brandon Utz (215) rounded out the state competitors with his fourth place win, losing in the consolations final rounds to Wilson’s Hailstalk.

Giving a valiant effort, Andrew Riner (112) came in fifth place after falling 2-2 for the day. Shane Foreman (103) and Robert Basta (119) each went 1-3 for the day, coming out in sixth place and rounding out Madison’s performances in the regional competition.

The seven Madison wrestlers who advanced to the state competition compete March 7 at the Salem Civic Center.

“The next week is a good opportunity for state preparation, something we haven’t had before,” said Sacra.