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Wrestlers look strong heading into section meetsBy Danielle Strenke The North Branch wrestling squad has worked hard to improve and defeat opponents like Sauk Rapids and Chisago Lakes this year. With their last dual Feb. 1, the team had more than a week to prepare for this weekís team sectional events. With Milaca and Foley leading the conference, they are the favorites in the team meet. Head coach Tony Aho said Becker looked to take the third slot, and was hopeful that North Branch could make the semifinals with a fourth place showing at the section meet Tuesday. The semifinal and finals in team competition will take place at North Branch Friday, with 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. starts. While they are optimistic about a good showing as a team, Aho said their focus right now is to pick up victories in the individual playoffs, which will be Friday and Saturday, Feb. 22-23 at Mora. ìWe have been practicing hard all year,î Aho said. ìWe have a legitimite shot at making the finals in two weights.î He also said two or three other wrestlers have a good chance of placing high in their weight bracket. At the individual competition, the first round will begin Feb. 22 at 4 p.m. Following the preliminary round will be quarterfinals and wrestlebacks. The semifinals and finals rounds will begin Feb. 23 at 11 a.m. The top two wrestlers at each weight advance to the state tournament, scheduled for Feb. 28-March 2 at the Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul. ©ECM Post Review |