The Baxter wrestling team faced a challenging start to their season on March 7, 2024, at a quadrangular event held in Montezuma. Despite the enthusiasm of five wrestlers making their varsity debuts, the Bolts were unable to secure a victory, losing all three dual matches.
Maddox Peters stood out as the sole veteran in the lineup, demonstrating his experience by finishing the day with a perfect record of 3-0. He achieved all three wins by first-period pins, showcasing his skill and setting a benchmark for his teammates. The Bolts managed to record a total of 7-4 in contested matches, indicating competitive performances despite the overall results.
Baxter faced tough competitors, losing closely contested duals. They fell 31-30 to Sigourney/Keota, losing on criteria after a series of double forfeits. The team also lost 42-36 to Cardinal and suffered a 60-18 defeat against the host team, Montezuma. The Bolts’ performance in these matches highlighted their potential, especially considering they competed with just six wrestlers in the lineup.
Key Performers Shine Despite Team Losses
In addition to Peters, both Kinnick Poage and Miles McCord also finished the day with unblemished records of 3-0. Poage, wrestling at 113 pounds, secured two first-period pins to contribute significantly to the team’s efforts. McCord, who is balancing wrestling with basketball this winter, accepted forfeits in all three of his bouts at 190 pounds.
The varsity debuts for Poage and McCord were notable, alongside fellow newcomers Lincoln Russell, Samuel Wilhelm, and Nyle Brown. Russell competed at 120 pounds and finished with a record of 2-1, while Wilhelm, wrestling at 215 pounds, also recorded two wins, one by fall and one by forfeit. Nyle Brown, competing at 285 pounds, accepted a forfeit against Cardinal.
Baxter’s performance against Cardinal was particularly noteworthy, as they won all three contested matches. However, the dual was lost due to giving up seven forfeits. Against Sigourney/Keota, the Bolts finished 2-1 in contested bouts, but the match tilted in favor of the Cobras due to a 4-3 advantage in forfeit wins.
Looking Ahead for the Bolts
The dual against Montezuma presented a tough challenge, with the host team achieving a 3-2 surplus in contested wins and a significant 7-1 advantage in forfeits. Despite the setbacks, the day’s matches provided valuable experience for the young Bolts team.
As the season progresses, the Baxter wrestling team will aim to build on the individual successes of Peters, Poage, McCord, Russell, and Wilhelm. With more matches ahead, including opportunities for additional training and development, the Bolts hope to improve their overall performance and find their footing in upcoming competitions.
