Viking wrestlers take 2nd in Big Lake Tourney

North Branch wrestlers took enough points over the past weekend to secure second place in the Big Lake Tournament behind Meadow Creek.
Viking wrestler John Buchanan, at 125, took a first place win.
Buchanan was named outstanding wrestler at the tournament by all the team coaches after defeating a wrestler who took fifth in the state tournament last year.
Joe Holmgren, 140, a senior, also had a first place tournament victory.
They were joined by Jeremy Bergerson, who is making a name for himself at 275, on the first place podium.
Christ Newham, wrestling at 103, took second place over all.
North Branchís Jeff Holmgren, at 112, and James Kvale, 189, also had second place titles.
At 130, Cody Gallmeier took third.
Zeb Sims, wrestling at 145, and Ed Meier at 171, both took fourth place titles.
With fifth place titles were Vince Zaffke, 135; Alex Gerszewski, 152; Sam Suparat, 160; and Matt Davidson, 215.
The team had an impressive finish at the end of a tough competition week.
Several of the older, more experienced wrestlers will be out of the line-up for a while, said head coach Tony Aho.
Injuries are piling up in the older ranks and younger, more inexperienced wrestlers ìare being thrust into varsity spots, whether or not they are ready for it,î Aho said.
The team took on Fridley and New Richmond last Tuesday in a tri-meet the Vikes split 1-1.
In the Fridley match-up, the Vikings came out winners with 51 to Fridleyís 12.
Newham won by a fall, Jeff Holmgren also won by a fall.
At 119, Jack Xiong won by decision.
The 125 weight class credited both teams because of a double forfeit.
Buchanan took a win by injury default.
Gallmeier won by fall and was joined by Josh Villella at 152, who also won by a fall.
Three more fall wins pushed North Branch far ahead with points from Sims at 160, Luke Keocher at 189 and Bergerson at 275.
In the New Richmond match, North Branch fell 42-30 after taking some tough matches.
Newham won by forfeit, Jeff Holmgren earned six for a pin, Buchanan added a few more for a decision win, Joe Holmgren and Villella pulled down another six each and Sims took a decision win.
The 275 match featuring Jeremy Bergerson went into overtime but Bergersonís opponent was the first to score.
Despite the tough week and working through injuries, Aho said the wrestlers are working hard and improving daily.

Top of Page

©ECM Post Review

6448 Main Street
North Branch, MN 55056
Telephone: 651-674-7025
Fax: 651-674-7026
E-mail: editor.postreview@ecm-inc.com