Mat Tigers win area, qualify for sectionals

The Tigers scored the highest team total, defying the odds with their win over Social Circle.

Commerce was forced to forfeit several weight classes because of injuries. The team still won by 10 points, said coach Kendall Love, who expressed pride at his group’s determination. Wrestlers finished fourth or better in their weight classes to qualify for sectionals.

“Winning the team area championship was icing on the cake. Social Circle had all 14 weight classes and for us to come away with the championship is a testament to the way these guys battled,” Love said. “We wrestled well and beat some guys that most would consider an upset. Our guys in each weight class did what they had to do to qualify and advance to sectionals next week.”

Additionally, Commerce performed well during its senior night on Tuesday, Jan. 31, defeating Franklin Co. 57-17 and Jackson County 37-28.

Individual results for the area meet: 113-lb., Cody Legg (third); 120, Nick Henderson (fourth); 132, Johnny McAbee  (third); 138, Josh Westmoreland (fourth); 145, Greyson Cochran (third); 152, Trent Reddish (first), 160, Tyreke Wiggins (third); 170, Thomas Sweeney (second); 182, Cole Sweeney (second), 195, Brian Whitfield (second); 220, Chance McClure (first).

Commerce’s individual winners against Franklin County were: Cody Legg, Nick Henderson, Josh Westmoreland, Cody Nation, Greyson Cochran, Trent Reddish, Thomas Sweeney, Cole Sweeney, Brian Whitfield and Chance McClure.

Commerce’s individual winners against Jackson Co. were: Cody Legg, Josh Westmoreland, Cody Nation, Greyson Cochran, Trent Reddish, Thomas Sweeney, Cole Sweeney and Chance McClure.