Courtesy report
The Triad Wrestling Club made an impressive debut at its first tournament of the season in Louisiana Folk Style Wrestling, demonstrating resilience, determination, and noticeable improvement across the board.
Coach Jeremy Hebert expressed pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing their growth and competitive spirit.
“I’m definitely proud of the improvement and fight we showed today,” Hebert said. “This is what wrestling and life are all about. You get knocked down, and you keep fighting your way back up.”
The tournament was a significant milestone for several wrestlers. Robert Stevens and Fisher Cannon, two Ruston High School juniors, finally had the opportunity to gain valuable match experience facing off against high schoolers that competed in LHSAA State Championships last weekend.
Middle Schoolers Brant Youngblood and Brett Brown wrestled their way to the top, facing off in an exciting battle for first and second place in the 14U Rookie Division. Their hard work and dedication were evident as they dominated their bracket.
Patrick Gillum, 5th grader at A.E. Phillips, made an impressive run to the championship round in the 12U rookie division, coming within seconds of pinning his opponent before time expired.
Meanwhile, Owen Hebert of Ruston Junior High Sschool bounced back from an early loss to the defending state champion and wrestled his way onto the podium, securing third place in the 14U division.
Austin Jackson and AJ Nations both picked up crucial wins in their brackets, showing great promise for the season ahead.
Levi Stephenson and Mychael White, also of RJHS, took on more experienced competitors, gaining essential mat time and showcasing their willingness to take on tough challenges in their respective brackets.
Coach Hebert commended the wrestlers and their families for their dedication and support. “Love all these guys and their families. The best is yet to come.”
With such a strong start to the season, the Triad Wrestling Club is poised for continued growth and success. The team’s perseverance and commitment to improvement will undoubtedly fuel their journey in the competitions ahead.
Triad Wrestling Club will compete against on Saturday, March 8, at the Brusly Panther Open. The club will compete again at the Ark La Tex Classic on Saturday, March 15, and LA State Championships on Saturday, March 22, in Baton Rouge at the Canes River Center.
