Okoboji/HMS enjoyed a winning night on the wrestling mat as the team took part in a quad January 6 at Pocahontas. The Pioneers’ only two match losses came by forfeit in a 69-12 victory over East Sac County. They also defeated Manson NW Webster by a score of 57-20. They were unable to get the win over host Pocahontas Area as the Indians came out on top 40-35.
Each of the three HMS wrestlers taking part in the quad earned one win in competition. At 182 pounds James Gellerman won by fall over East Sac County’s Kaydon Erpelding in 18 seconds. Ethan Wiersma’s match with Manson NW Webster’s Trevor Condon nearly went the distance before Wiersma was able to pin the Cougar 195-pounder in 5:52. Heavyweight Nick Bronstad also pinned his Cougar counterpart Tristan Hood with the end coming in 58 seconds.
Wiersma and Bronstad each picked up a pair of wins by forfeit to go 3-0 on the night. The forfeits came against the Raiders and against Pocahontas Area. Gellerman was also a winner by forfeit with his victory coming against Manson NW Webster. He did take a loss in the dual with the Indians as Deontez Williams won a 12-2 major decision.
HMS grappler Bryce Dodge won an exhibition match at 160 pounds. He pinned Cody Nichols of Pocahontas Area in 1:40.