2018-19 season
SENIOR NIGHT 2019
Sectional Wrestling
by Tyce Ruffridge & Kevin Rumbo
On Saturday, Pocahontas Area had two wrestlers qualify for districts. Jacob Mielke placed 1st place and Thomas Malone placed second. The Indians wrestled well on Saturday. Thomas ran into ranked guys and ended up pinning Lathe Muench 1 minute and 19 seconds in the match, and then received a bye for the quarter finals. Tyce Ruffidge made it to the quarterfinals, beating Gage Prenger with a decision of 2-0 but later took an “L” against Tyler Stein. Thomas Malone and Jacob Mielke will both wrestle this Saturday @ Clear Lake.
by Tyce Ruffridge & Kevin Rumbo
On Saturday, Pocahontas Area had two wrestlers qualify for districts. Jacob Mielke placed 1st place and Thomas Malone placed second. The Indians wrestled well on Saturday. Thomas ran into ranked guys and ended up pinning Lathe Muench 1 minute and 19 seconds in the match, and then received a bye for the quarter finals. Tyce Ruffidge made it to the quarterfinals, beating Gage Prenger with a decision of 2-0 but later took an “L” against Tyler Stein. Thomas Malone and Jacob Mielke will both wrestle this Saturday @ Clear Lake.
Lynn Moody Invite Results
1st Place: Jacob Mielke (106), Thomas Melohn (145)
2nd Place: Dane Johnson (285)
3rd Place: Tyce Ruffridge (113), Brandon Lenz (120), Colton Freeburg (152), Keaton Bindel (160)
4th Place: Trey Sandvig (170)
5th Place: Drake Jones (195)
1st Place: Jacob Mielke (106), Thomas Melohn (145)
2nd Place: Dane Johnson (285)
3rd Place: Tyce Ruffridge (113), Brandon Lenz (120), Colton Freeburg (152), Keaton Bindel (160)
4th Place: Trey Sandvig (170)
5th Place: Drake Jones (195)
Indians Defeated by A-A & ELC
by Jose Medel
On January 15, 2019, Pocahontas Area wrestled Alta-Aurelia and lost 18-57 but the following won their matches: Thomas Melohn (152), Keaton Bindel (160),and Trey Sandvig (170). Also that same night Pocahontas Area High School wrestled Estherville Lincoln Central and lost 20-39 but a few of the Pocahontas wrestlers won: Brandon Lenz (120), Keaton Bindel (160), Drake Jones (220), and Tyce Ruffridge (113).
by Jose Medel
On January 15, 2019, Pocahontas Area wrestled Alta-Aurelia and lost 18-57 but the following won their matches: Thomas Melohn (152), Keaton Bindel (160),and Trey Sandvig (170). Also that same night Pocahontas Area High School wrestled Estherville Lincoln Central and lost 20-39 but a few of the Pocahontas wrestlers won: Brandon Lenz (120), Keaton Bindel (160), Drake Jones (220), and Tyce Ruffridge (113).
Twin Lakes Conference Wrestling
The Indian wrestlers recently competed at the Twin Lakes Conference Meet. Our small squad came away with three place winners. Senior, Jacob Mielke (106), lead the way finishing first by defeating Kevin King of SCC with a pin at the 3:52 mark). Junior, Thomas Melohn (145), walked away with the silver after falling to Keaton Lindner of Sioux Central in the finals. Sophomore, Dane Johnson (220), was the final Indian on the podium, finishing fifth, by pining Jordan Anderson of Emmetsburg in his final match of the day. Congratulations Indians!
The Indian wrestlers recently competed at the Twin Lakes Conference Meet. Our small squad came away with three place winners. Senior, Jacob Mielke (106), lead the way finishing first by defeating Kevin King of SCC with a pin at the 3:52 mark). Junior, Thomas Melohn (145), walked away with the silver after falling to Keaton Lindner of Sioux Central in the finals. Sophomore, Dane Johnson (220), was the final Indian on the podium, finishing fifth, by pining Jordan Anderson of Emmetsburg in his final match of the day. Congratulations Indians!
Indians Compete at Home Meet
On January 10, 2019, the Indians hosted a home wrestling meet against Ridge View, West Sioux, and Cherokee. The Indians fell to Ridge View 33-42, against West Sioux Pocahontas lost 3-75, and against Cherokee Pocahontas also lost 30-51. Despite the team losses, the Indians had a lot of individual standouts on the night. Jacob Mielke, Tyce Ruffridge, Brandon Lenz, Keaton Bindel and Drake Jones all won their matches. In the match versus Ridge View, Dane Johnson, Jacob Mielke, Tyce Ruffridge, Brandon Lenz, Thomas Melohn and Keaton Bindel all defeated their opponents. Jacob Mielke was the sole winner against an outstanding West Sioux team, leaving the senior the only 3 match winner for the night. The Indians are in action again on Saturday, at the Twin Lakes conference meet.
On January 10, 2019, the Indians hosted a home wrestling meet against Ridge View, West Sioux, and Cherokee. The Indians fell to Ridge View 33-42, against West Sioux Pocahontas lost 3-75, and against Cherokee Pocahontas also lost 30-51. Despite the team losses, the Indians had a lot of individual standouts on the night. Jacob Mielke, Tyce Ruffridge, Brandon Lenz, Keaton Bindel and Drake Jones all won their matches. In the match versus Ridge View, Dane Johnson, Jacob Mielke, Tyce Ruffridge, Brandon Lenz, Thomas Melohn and Keaton Bindel all defeated their opponents. Jacob Mielke was the sole winner against an outstanding West Sioux team, leaving the senior the only 3 match winner for the night. The Indians are in action again on Saturday, at the Twin Lakes conference meet.
Three Indians Place at Jack Mendenhall Invite
by Tyce Ruffridge
The Jack Mendenhall Invitational was a successful tournament for 3 Indian wrestlers. Jacob Mielke placed second losing to Trevor Anderson in the finals. Thomas Melohn placed sixth getting pinned in his final match. Tyce Ruffridge was also beaten in the 5-6 place match losing 14-5. This tournament was very difficult having a strong field of seven 3A schools attending that had very good programs. The Indians taking 3 place winners away from that tournament is successful and they should be proud.
by Tyce Ruffridge
The Jack Mendenhall Invitational was a successful tournament for 3 Indian wrestlers. Jacob Mielke placed second losing to Trevor Anderson in the finals. Thomas Melohn placed sixth getting pinned in his final match. Tyce Ruffridge was also beaten in the 5-6 place match losing 14-5. This tournament was very difficult having a strong field of seven 3A schools attending that had very good programs. The Indians taking 3 place winners away from that tournament is successful and they should be proud.
Tiger-Knight Invitational
by Jordan Zeutlau
On Saturday, December 15th, the Pocahontas Area’s wrestling team traveled to Carroll for the Tiger Knight Invitational.
Senior, Jacob Mielke wrestled at 106 and placed 1st and scored 18.0 team points. Round 2 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Dominick Arce-Matos (Ames) 6-8 (Fall 1:22). Round 3 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Colton Choquette (Westwood) 10-11 (Fall 0:17).Round 4 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Degan Schweitzer (Carroll) 11-7 (Fall 0:27). Round 5 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) 22-1 won by fall over Tyler Halloran (Clarinda) 12-5 (Fall 1:54). Great Job, Jacob!
Freshman,Tyce Ruffridge wrestled at 113 and placed 5th, scoring 10.0 team points. Sadly, Jaxson Kuhlmann (Carroll) won by decision over Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) (Dec 7-1) In Round 1, Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Jaylan Knox (Ames) (Fall 3:21). In the semifinals sadly, Ryan Duckett (St. Edmond) won by major decision over Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) (MD 12-4). The 5th Place Match, Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Brayden Gibson (Westwood) (Fall 3:00). Ncie job,Tyce.
Freshman, Brandon Lenz wrestled at 120 and placed 5th scoring 6.0 team points.In the quarterfinals, sadly, Nathan Thoma (Manson Northwest Webster) won by fall over Lenz (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 5:32). In Round 1, Lenz (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Jordan Corrieri (Ames) (Dec 8-4)In the semifinals sadly, Eddy Gutierrez (Denison-Schleswig) won by fall over Lenz (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 2:54). In the 5th Place Match, Brandon Lenz (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Dillion Hunter (Westwood) (Dec 7-4). Nice job, Brandon!
Thomas Melohn wrestled at 152 and placed 1st, scoring 24.0 team points. In the quarterfinals, Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Brady Burkheimer (Ames) (Fall 0:56).In the semifinals,Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Kaleb Reed (Clarinda) (Fall 0:59). In the 1st Place Match, Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Chris Krueger (Manson Northwest Webster) (Dec 9-8) Great Job, Thomas!
Freshman, Keaton Bindel wrestled at 160, placed 5th and scored 10.0 team points.In the quarterfinals, sadly Zach Daniel (Kuemper Catholic) won by fall over Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 1:52).In Round 1, Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Reyd Oldson (Manson Northwest Webster) (Fall 0:52)In the semifinals, again sadly Noah Bollhoefer (Ames) won by fall over Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 3:00)In the 5th Place Match, Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) won by medical forfeit over Zach Daniel (Kuemper Catholic) (M. For.) Good Job, Keaton!
by Jordan Zeutlau
On Saturday, December 15th, the Pocahontas Area’s wrestling team traveled to Carroll for the Tiger Knight Invitational.
Senior, Jacob Mielke wrestled at 106 and placed 1st and scored 18.0 team points. Round 2 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Dominick Arce-Matos (Ames) 6-8 (Fall 1:22). Round 3 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Colton Choquette (Westwood) 10-11 (Fall 0:17).Round 4 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Degan Schweitzer (Carroll) 11-7 (Fall 0:27). Round 5 for Jacob Mielke (Pocahontas Area) 22-1 won by fall over Tyler Halloran (Clarinda) 12-5 (Fall 1:54). Great Job, Jacob!
Freshman,Tyce Ruffridge wrestled at 113 and placed 5th, scoring 10.0 team points. Sadly, Jaxson Kuhlmann (Carroll) won by decision over Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) (Dec 7-1) In Round 1, Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Jaylan Knox (Ames) (Fall 3:21). In the semifinals sadly, Ryan Duckett (St. Edmond) won by major decision over Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) (MD 12-4). The 5th Place Match, Ruffridge (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Brayden Gibson (Westwood) (Fall 3:00). Ncie job,Tyce.
Freshman, Brandon Lenz wrestled at 120 and placed 5th scoring 6.0 team points.In the quarterfinals, sadly, Nathan Thoma (Manson Northwest Webster) won by fall over Lenz (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 5:32). In Round 1, Lenz (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Jordan Corrieri (Ames) (Dec 8-4)In the semifinals sadly, Eddy Gutierrez (Denison-Schleswig) won by fall over Lenz (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 2:54). In the 5th Place Match, Brandon Lenz (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Dillion Hunter (Westwood) (Dec 7-4). Nice job, Brandon!
Thomas Melohn wrestled at 152 and placed 1st, scoring 24.0 team points. In the quarterfinals, Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Brady Burkheimer (Ames) (Fall 0:56).In the semifinals,Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Kaleb Reed (Clarinda) (Fall 0:59). In the 1st Place Match, Thomas Melohn (Pocahontas Area) won by decision over Chris Krueger (Manson Northwest Webster) (Dec 9-8) Great Job, Thomas!
Freshman, Keaton Bindel wrestled at 160, placed 5th and scored 10.0 team points.In the quarterfinals, sadly Zach Daniel (Kuemper Catholic) won by fall over Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 1:52).In Round 1, Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) won by fall over Reyd Oldson (Manson Northwest Webster) (Fall 0:52)In the semifinals, again sadly Noah Bollhoefer (Ames) won by fall over Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) (Fall 3:00)In the 5th Place Match, Keaton Bindel (Pocahontas Area) won by medical forfeit over Zach Daniel (Kuemper Catholic) (M. For.) Good Job, Keaton!
Short Handed Indians Continue To Struggle
by Jace Davidson
The PAC wrestling team continues to struggle in the duals, as they are still short handed through the season. Last Thursday, they traveled to Humboldt to compete in three duals against Humboldt, Hampton-Dumont-CAL, and. Clarion-Goldfield-Dows They went 0-3 on the night only scoring 38 points through the three duals. Three wrestlers really stood out though for this PAC squad. Senior leader, Jacob Mielke, dominated his matches going 3-0 with 2 pins and 3-2 decision over Humboldt’s Cole Nelson. Then we have junior phenom, Thomas Melon, going 3-0 as well with a pin, major decision, and 5-2 decision over Hampton-Dumont’s David Cornejo. Last is the up-and-coming freshman, Tyce (Bubba) Ruffridge, who went 2-1 on the night. Ruffridge’s only defeat came from Clarion’s Tyler Stein, while he picked up his other two dubs with a pin and major decision.
These boys are still continuing to show fight through these duals. This team is young and still learning how to grow into being great wrestlers and better teammates. The future is bright for PAC wrestling, and they will still continue to show their fight.
by Jace Davidson
The PAC wrestling team continues to struggle in the duals, as they are still short handed through the season. Last Thursday, they traveled to Humboldt to compete in three duals against Humboldt, Hampton-Dumont-CAL, and. Clarion-Goldfield-Dows They went 0-3 on the night only scoring 38 points through the three duals. Three wrestlers really stood out though for this PAC squad. Senior leader, Jacob Mielke, dominated his matches going 3-0 with 2 pins and 3-2 decision over Humboldt’s Cole Nelson. Then we have junior phenom, Thomas Melon, going 3-0 as well with a pin, major decision, and 5-2 decision over Hampton-Dumont’s David Cornejo. Last is the up-and-coming freshman, Tyce (Bubba) Ruffridge, who went 2-1 on the night. Ruffridge’s only defeat came from Clarion’s Tyler Stein, while he picked up his other two dubs with a pin and major decision.
These boys are still continuing to show fight through these duals. This team is young and still learning how to grow into being great wrestlers and better teammates. The future is bright for PAC wrestling, and they will still continue to show their fight.
Joe Fitch Invitational
by Jordan Zeutlau
The Pocahontas Area Wrestling team traveled to Humboldt last Friday , November 30, to wrestling at their first tournament of the year. The tournament had eight teams there including PAC, Forest City, Emmetsburg, Humboldt, Kuemper Catholic, Sheldon/ South O’brien, Atlantic, and Aplington-Parkersburg/Guthrie Center.
Senior, Jacob Mielke, wrestled at 106. His first round was a quick match against Nate Doden of Forest City, with a pin for Mielke, with a time of 47 seconds. Mielke’s second round was another great match against Nic Lowe of Emmetsburg, with another pin for Mielke, with a time of 1 minute and 32 seconds. Mielke’s last round of the normal matches, before the placing matches, was almost unbelievable with a pin by Mielke against Dylan Vaudt of Humboldt, with a time of 20 seconds. Mielke’s very last match of the night was the first place match against Cole Nelson of Humboldt, with Mielke taking the pin and getting first place, with a time of 5 minutes and 49 seconds. Congratulations, Jacob!
Freshman, Tyce Ruffridge, wrestled at 113. Ruffridge’s first round didn’t go the way he was wanting it to go, but he was a fighter until he was eventually pinned by Benjamin Schmitz of Kuemper Catholic. His second was a lot better with Ruffridge taking the pin against Ian Klein of Sheldon, with a time of 3 minutes and 25 seconds. His final normal match before going into the placing match, he was sadly defeated by Sean Brennan of Emmetsburg, with a time of 2 minutes and 27 seconds. Ruffridge's final match of the night was the 5th place match which he won against Gage Prenger, by ultimate tie breaker. Great Job, Tyce!
Wrestling at 126, was freshman, Brandon Lenz. The first three rounds of the meet, did not at all go the way Lenz had hoped but with his final match of the night, he stepped up his game and beat Cade Brown of Emmetsburg with an ending score of 6-2. Way to make a comeback, Brandon!
Wrestling at 152, was Junior, Thomas Melohn. The first round, Thomas took the pin over Kanner Bauer, of Sheldon/South O’Brien, with a time of 27 seconds. Melohn’s second round, he received a bye. Melohn’s third round, he sadly lost. And his last round of the night, the 3rd place match Thomas fell short and went home with fourth place.
Junior, Colton Freeburg wrestled at 160. The first three rounds of the meet, did not at all go the way Colton had hope but with his final match of the night, he stepped up his game and beat Blake Skjeie of Forest City, with a time of 1 minute and 23 seconds. Way to make a comeback, Colton!
Wrestling at 170, was Freshman, Keaton Bindel. Bindel’s first match, he received a bye. Bindel’s second match, he pinned Austin Knaack, of Aplington-Parkersburg/Guthrie Center, with a time of 44 seconds. Bindel’s third match, he was sadly pinned by Bobby Beldt,of Sheldon/South O’Brien, with a time of 1 minute and 50 seconds. Bindel’s last match of the night was the 3rd place match where Bindel,sadly, fell short and went home with fourth place.
Wrestling at 182, was Freshman, Trey Sandvig, Sadly, Sandvig loses all three rounds and his last round, he received a bye, placing 7th.
Wrestling at 195, was Junior, Drake Jones. Sadly, Jones lost all four rounds, placing 8th.
Wrestling at 285, was Sophomore, Dane Johnson. Sadly, Johnson was pinned in both his first and second match. He received a bye in his third match. Johnson’s final match of the night was the 5th place match,where Johnson pinned Kaden Hagy, of Forest City, with a time of 4 minutes and 37 seconds. John son went home with 5th place. Great job,Dane.
by Jordan Zeutlau
The Pocahontas Area Wrestling team traveled to Humboldt last Friday , November 30, to wrestling at their first tournament of the year. The tournament had eight teams there including PAC, Forest City, Emmetsburg, Humboldt, Kuemper Catholic, Sheldon/ South O’brien, Atlantic, and Aplington-Parkersburg/Guthrie Center.
Senior, Jacob Mielke, wrestled at 106. His first round was a quick match against Nate Doden of Forest City, with a pin for Mielke, with a time of 47 seconds. Mielke’s second round was another great match against Nic Lowe of Emmetsburg, with another pin for Mielke, with a time of 1 minute and 32 seconds. Mielke’s last round of the normal matches, before the placing matches, was almost unbelievable with a pin by Mielke against Dylan Vaudt of Humboldt, with a time of 20 seconds. Mielke’s very last match of the night was the first place match against Cole Nelson of Humboldt, with Mielke taking the pin and getting first place, with a time of 5 minutes and 49 seconds. Congratulations, Jacob!
Freshman, Tyce Ruffridge, wrestled at 113. Ruffridge’s first round didn’t go the way he was wanting it to go, but he was a fighter until he was eventually pinned by Benjamin Schmitz of Kuemper Catholic. His second was a lot better with Ruffridge taking the pin against Ian Klein of Sheldon, with a time of 3 minutes and 25 seconds. His final normal match before going into the placing match, he was sadly defeated by Sean Brennan of Emmetsburg, with a time of 2 minutes and 27 seconds. Ruffridge's final match of the night was the 5th place match which he won against Gage Prenger, by ultimate tie breaker. Great Job, Tyce!
Wrestling at 126, was freshman, Brandon Lenz. The first three rounds of the meet, did not at all go the way Lenz had hoped but with his final match of the night, he stepped up his game and beat Cade Brown of Emmetsburg with an ending score of 6-2. Way to make a comeback, Brandon!
Wrestling at 152, was Junior, Thomas Melohn. The first round, Thomas took the pin over Kanner Bauer, of Sheldon/South O’Brien, with a time of 27 seconds. Melohn’s second round, he received a bye. Melohn’s third round, he sadly lost. And his last round of the night, the 3rd place match Thomas fell short and went home with fourth place.
Junior, Colton Freeburg wrestled at 160. The first three rounds of the meet, did not at all go the way Colton had hope but with his final match of the night, he stepped up his game and beat Blake Skjeie of Forest City, with a time of 1 minute and 23 seconds. Way to make a comeback, Colton!
Wrestling at 170, was Freshman, Keaton Bindel. Bindel’s first match, he received a bye. Bindel’s second match, he pinned Austin Knaack, of Aplington-Parkersburg/Guthrie Center, with a time of 44 seconds. Bindel’s third match, he was sadly pinned by Bobby Beldt,of Sheldon/South O’Brien, with a time of 1 minute and 50 seconds. Bindel’s last match of the night was the 3rd place match where Bindel,sadly, fell short and went home with fourth place.
Wrestling at 182, was Freshman, Trey Sandvig, Sadly, Sandvig loses all three rounds and his last round, he received a bye, placing 7th.
Wrestling at 195, was Junior, Drake Jones. Sadly, Jones lost all four rounds, placing 8th.
Wrestling at 285, was Sophomore, Dane Johnson. Sadly, Johnson was pinned in both his first and second match. He received a bye in his third match. Johnson’s final match of the night was the 5th place match,where Johnson pinned Kaden Hagy, of Forest City, with a time of 4 minutes and 37 seconds. John son went home with 5th place. Great job,Dane.
PAC Falls in Double Duel
by Matt Vanderham
Thursday, December 29, 2018, at Sioux Rapids there was a double duel night. Pocahontas first wrestled Emmetsburg with the final team scores coming back 76-6 with Emmetsburg coming out with the W. The individual win in the duel was Jacob Milke pinning his opponent, Nic Lowe, in 1:54 in the match.
Pocahontas also wrestled Storm Lake that night in the double duel. Pocahontas also fell short in the duel with the teams final score coming to 30-47. The Individual winners were Jacob Milke with a pin 1:02 into the match against Andrew Kutz, and Keaton Bindel with a pin over Terry Iraheta at 0:24 into the match.
by Matt Vanderham
Thursday, December 29, 2018, at Sioux Rapids there was a double duel night. Pocahontas first wrestled Emmetsburg with the final team scores coming back 76-6 with Emmetsburg coming out with the W. The individual win in the duel was Jacob Milke pinning his opponent, Nic Lowe, in 1:54 in the match.
Pocahontas also wrestled Storm Lake that night in the double duel. Pocahontas also fell short in the duel with the teams final score coming to 30-47. The Individual winners were Jacob Milke with a pin 1:02 into the match against Andrew Kutz, and Keaton Bindel with a pin over Terry Iraheta at 0:24 into the match.
Indians Advance Three to District Meet
The PAC grapplers traveled to Humboldt on Saturday, February 3, 2018, to take their chances at advancing to the state qualifying meet. Indian Junior, Jacob Mielke was the first wrestler to advance by defeating CGD's Tyler Stein with a pin (1:36). Senior, Shea Ruffridge, also advanced, finishing first by defeating Bryce Allen of CDG with a pin (2:30). Senior, Phil Minkler, rounded out the trio of qualifiers by finishing second.
Other Indians wrestlers who competed were Tyler Vick (5th), Thomas Melohn (4th), Chandler Witzke (5th), Drake Jones (5th) and Keegan Jepsen (5th). The qualifiers will travel to Webster City on Saturday, February 10, 2018, to take their shot at qualifying for th3e 2018 State Wrestling Tournament.
The PAC grapplers traveled to Humboldt on Saturday, February 3, 2018, to take their chances at advancing to the state qualifying meet. Indian Junior, Jacob Mielke was the first wrestler to advance by defeating CGD's Tyler Stein with a pin (1:36). Senior, Shea Ruffridge, also advanced, finishing first by defeating Bryce Allen of CDG with a pin (2:30). Senior, Phil Minkler, rounded out the trio of qualifiers by finishing second.
Other Indians wrestlers who competed were Tyler Vick (5th), Thomas Melohn (4th), Chandler Witzke (5th), Drake Jones (5th) and Keegan Jepsen (5th). The qualifiers will travel to Webster City on Saturday, February 10, 2018, to take their shot at qualifying for th3e 2018 State Wrestling Tournament.
Indians Crown 4 at Home Tournament
by Chase Boeve
This past Saturday, January 28, the Indian grapplers hosted the annual Lynn Moody invite. The Red and Black walked away with 4 gold medals and 3rd place as a squad. 106-pounder, Jacob Mielke, was 1 of 4 Indians to find himself at the top of the podium. Mielke cruised his way through the quarter and semifinals with a pin in 1:38 and 0:35. He then went on to beat Cade Stearns of GTRA with a 20-4 tech fall victory.
The next gold medalist for the Indian wrestling squad was Shea Ruffridge. Shea advanced by a 0:57 fall in his first match of the evening. He then went on to get a tech fall over Connor Jessen in the semifinal match. Finally, Ruffridge claimed his title with a quick pin over Chase Verbrugge of Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn (Fall 1:35).
Up next was Philip Minkler at 195 pounds. Phil beat his first opponent with a tech fall in the second period. Minkler won by major decision in his semi-final match to get into the championship match. Philip won in a tight match against Kaleb Schnurr of HMS with a 4-1 decision.
The last winner of the evening for the Indians was senior Keegan Jepsen. Keegan’s special day consisted of his very first varsity tournament win in his last Pocahontas tournament. Keegan battled through his first match, beating Caleb Vandenbrink in a 6-4 decision. He pinned his next opponent in 1:50, to find himself in the finals match. Finally Jepsen battled Colton Goodell and came out victorious with a 7-6 decision.
The Indian grapplers will wrestle Saturday as they kick off their post season.
by Chase Boeve
This past Saturday, January 28, the Indian grapplers hosted the annual Lynn Moody invite. The Red and Black walked away with 4 gold medals and 3rd place as a squad. 106-pounder, Jacob Mielke, was 1 of 4 Indians to find himself at the top of the podium. Mielke cruised his way through the quarter and semifinals with a pin in 1:38 and 0:35. He then went on to beat Cade Stearns of GTRA with a 20-4 tech fall victory.
The next gold medalist for the Indian wrestling squad was Shea Ruffridge. Shea advanced by a 0:57 fall in his first match of the evening. He then went on to get a tech fall over Connor Jessen in the semifinal match. Finally, Ruffridge claimed his title with a quick pin over Chase Verbrugge of Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn (Fall 1:35).
Up next was Philip Minkler at 195 pounds. Phil beat his first opponent with a tech fall in the second period. Minkler won by major decision in his semi-final match to get into the championship match. Philip won in a tight match against Kaleb Schnurr of HMS with a 4-1 decision.
The last winner of the evening for the Indians was senior Keegan Jepsen. Keegan’s special day consisted of his very first varsity tournament win in his last Pocahontas tournament. Keegan battled through his first match, beating Caleb Vandenbrink in a 6-4 decision. He pinned his next opponent in 1:50, to find himself in the finals match. Finally Jepsen battled Colton Goodell and came out victorious with a 7-6 decision.
The Indian grapplers will wrestle Saturday as they kick off their post season.
Indians Have Great Showing at Herb Irgens Invitational
by Jade Mielke
The Indians wrestling team took home 4 medals from the OA-BCIG meet that took place on January 20, 2018, in Ida Grove. The Indians came home with 1st place (1), 4th place (2) , 7th place (1), in a tournament that featured many ranked wrestlers.
Shea Ruffridge took home the first for our team. He received a bye in the first round. For round 2, Ruffridge won by fall over Caleb Wakehouse (Woodbine) in 1:04. In his quarterfinal match, Shea won by tech fall over Damon Williams (Cherokee) 17-2. In the semi-finals, Shea won by major decision over Trey Schuck (Sibley-Ocheyedan) with an ending score of 12-0. In his 1st place match, Ruffridge won by decision over Easton Larson (Don Bosco) with a score of 5-0
Jacob Mielke took home a fourth place medal for the Indians. For round 1, Mielke received a bye. For round 2, Jacob won by fall over Degan Schweitzer (Caroll) in 0:31. In the quarterfinal round, Mielke won by fall over Eric Tapia (Spirit Lake Park) in 0:55. In his semi-final match, Mielke lost by fall to Beau Klingensmith (Woodbury Central) in 1:29. For his constellation match, Jacob won by fall over Mason Hill (Cherokee) in 4:47. For his third place match, Mielke lost by decision to Jose Flores (Sibley-Ocheyedan) 4-6. Mielke placed fourth overall for the Indian grapplers.
Phillip Minkler took home another fourth place for the Indians. Minkler received a bye his first round. For round 2, Minkler won in tie breaker over Wyatt Sawvel (Don Bosco) 6-1. In the quarterfinals, Minkler won by major decision over Brennon Kofron (Caroll) 14-5. For his semi-final match, Minkler lost by fall by Hunter Dejong (Sibley-Ocheyedan) in 3:31. For his constellation round, Minkler won by decision over Eli Van Ginkel (Western Christian) 6-2. In his third place match, Minkler lost by fall by Joey Wolf (Woodbine) in 3:18.
Our only seventh place finisher was Tyler Reis. In round 1, Reis won by fall over Everett Lahr (SEV) in 1:07. In round 2, Reis won by decision over Jackson Knight (Emmetsburg) 6-2. In his quarterfinal match, Reis lost by decision by Jax Flynn (Solon) 0-5. For his constellation match in round 4, Reis won by injury default over Dawson Carey (EEHK) injury(3:56). In constellation round 5, Reis lost by decision to Lance Else (Ridge View) 6-9. In his seventh place match, Reis won by injury default over Austin Hellman (Don Bosco).
Four of six Indian wrestlers stood on the podium to receive awards. The wrestlers will now host their own meet, The Lynn Moody Invitational, on January 27, 2018. Then they will begin the journey to The Well. Come out and support our wrestlers as they move on to sectionals!
Let’s bring some PAC Wrestlers to The Well!!!
by Jade Mielke
The Indians wrestling team took home 4 medals from the OA-BCIG meet that took place on January 20, 2018, in Ida Grove. The Indians came home with 1st place (1), 4th place (2) , 7th place (1), in a tournament that featured many ranked wrestlers.
Shea Ruffridge took home the first for our team. He received a bye in the first round. For round 2, Ruffridge won by fall over Caleb Wakehouse (Woodbine) in 1:04. In his quarterfinal match, Shea won by tech fall over Damon Williams (Cherokee) 17-2. In the semi-finals, Shea won by major decision over Trey Schuck (Sibley-Ocheyedan) with an ending score of 12-0. In his 1st place match, Ruffridge won by decision over Easton Larson (Don Bosco) with a score of 5-0
Jacob Mielke took home a fourth place medal for the Indians. For round 1, Mielke received a bye. For round 2, Jacob won by fall over Degan Schweitzer (Caroll) in 0:31. In the quarterfinal round, Mielke won by fall over Eric Tapia (Spirit Lake Park) in 0:55. In his semi-final match, Mielke lost by fall to Beau Klingensmith (Woodbury Central) in 1:29. For his constellation match, Jacob won by fall over Mason Hill (Cherokee) in 4:47. For his third place match, Mielke lost by decision to Jose Flores (Sibley-Ocheyedan) 4-6. Mielke placed fourth overall for the Indian grapplers.
Phillip Minkler took home another fourth place for the Indians. Minkler received a bye his first round. For round 2, Minkler won in tie breaker over Wyatt Sawvel (Don Bosco) 6-1. In the quarterfinals, Minkler won by major decision over Brennon Kofron (Caroll) 14-5. For his semi-final match, Minkler lost by fall by Hunter Dejong (Sibley-Ocheyedan) in 3:31. For his constellation round, Minkler won by decision over Eli Van Ginkel (Western Christian) 6-2. In his third place match, Minkler lost by fall by Joey Wolf (Woodbine) in 3:18.
Our only seventh place finisher was Tyler Reis. In round 1, Reis won by fall over Everett Lahr (SEV) in 1:07. In round 2, Reis won by decision over Jackson Knight (Emmetsburg) 6-2. In his quarterfinal match, Reis lost by decision by Jax Flynn (Solon) 0-5. For his constellation match in round 4, Reis won by injury default over Dawson Carey (EEHK) injury(3:56). In constellation round 5, Reis lost by decision to Lance Else (Ridge View) 6-9. In his seventh place match, Reis won by injury default over Austin Hellman (Don Bosco).
Four of six Indian wrestlers stood on the podium to receive awards. The wrestlers will now host their own meet, The Lynn Moody Invitational, on January 27, 2018. Then they will begin the journey to The Well. Come out and support our wrestlers as they move on to sectionals!
Let’s bring some PAC Wrestlers to The Well!!!
Indians Fall Short at Alta
by Natalie Hartley
On January, 16, 2018, th Pocahontas Indians wrestled against Estherville Lincoln Central and Alta-Aurelia. Tyler Reis won his match with a forfeit. Philip Minkler also won his match with a forfeit. Jacob Mielke wrestled against Michael Houge and defeated him with a fall at 1:28. Shea Ruffridge defeated Jalen Tripp with a technical fall at 4:00. The Pocahontas Indians fell short to Estherville Lincoln Central (29-33).
The final match of the night featured the Pocahontas Area Indians versus Alta-Aurelia. Chandler Witzke defeated Tyler Gaes with a fall at 1:03. Tyler Reis defeated Nathan Weflen with a fall at 2:59. Philip Minkler defeated Brandon Mier with a fall at 1:08. Jacob Mielke defeated Tyler Peterson with a fall at 3:21. Shea Ruffridge defeated Schade Larson with a Fall at 2:54. The Indians fell short to Alta-Aurelia (30-39).
by Natalie Hartley
On January, 16, 2018, th Pocahontas Indians wrestled against Estherville Lincoln Central and Alta-Aurelia. Tyler Reis won his match with a forfeit. Philip Minkler also won his match with a forfeit. Jacob Mielke wrestled against Michael Houge and defeated him with a fall at 1:28. Shea Ruffridge defeated Jalen Tripp with a technical fall at 4:00. The Pocahontas Indians fell short to Estherville Lincoln Central (29-33).
The final match of the night featured the Pocahontas Area Indians versus Alta-Aurelia. Chandler Witzke defeated Tyler Gaes with a fall at 1:03. Tyler Reis defeated Nathan Weflen with a fall at 2:59. Philip Minkler defeated Brandon Mier with a fall at 1:08. Jacob Mielke defeated Tyler Peterson with a fall at 3:21. Shea Ruffridge defeated Schade Larson with a Fall at 2:54. The Indians fell short to Alta-Aurelia (30-39).
PAC Wrestlers Take Home 9 Conference Medals
by Jade Mielke
On January 13, the PAC wrestling team competed at the 2018 Twin Lakes Conference Wrestling Meet in Gowrie, Iowa, where they took home a multitude of honors. The medals consisted of first place (2), second place (1), third place (1), fourth place (3), fifth place (1), and sixth place (1). Seven wrestlers were able to take home a medal and stand on the podium after their long day of conference wrestling.
Our two first place wrestlers were Shea Ruffridge (SR) and Phillip Minkler(SR).
Shea pinned Hannah Payne (SCC) for the quarterfinal in 32 seconds. In the Semi-Finals round, Shea pinned Sam Hemmestad (SEV) in 2 minutes and 59 seconds. In his first place match, he won by major decision over Levi Aldous (Emmetsburg) with a score of 15-5.
Phillip Minkler received a bye in his quarter final match. In the semi-finals, Phillip won by decision over Blake Miller (GTRA) with a score of 7-1. In his first place match, Phillip won by decision over John Schuttler (MNW) with an ending score of 3-1. This avenged a loss to Schuttler just a week earlier.
Jacob Mielke came in a close second for his conference finish. In Jacob’s quarterfinal match, he won by fall over Peyton Wunschel (ESC) in 34 seconds. In his semi-final match, Jacob won by tech fall over Cade Stearns (GTRA) with a score of 18-2. In his first place match, he fell short to Donavon Hanson (MNW) with an ending score of 1-6, landing him in second place.
Tyler Reis placed third at the conference meet. In his quarterfinal match, Reis won by decision over Jackson Knight (Emmetsburg) 14-15. In the semi-final round, Tyler Reis lost by decision by Nate Larson (GTRA) with an ending score of 4-7. Tyler came back for a consolation round and won by decision over Charlie Langner (ESC) 5-1. For his third place match, Reis won by decision over Connor Fehr (WBM) 7-3.
We had three wrestlers finish fourth for the Indians, including Thomas Melohn, Chandler Witzke, and Daviontae Williams.
In the quarterfinals, Thomas won by fall over Hunter Jergens (WBM) in three minutes and seven seconds. In his semi-final match, Thomas lost by fall to Kolton Roth (GTRA) in two minutes and forty one seconds. In his consolation round, Thomas won by fall over Jonah Siebert (SEV) in thirty seconds. For his third place match, Melohn was defeated my major decision by Jordan Khommannyvong with an ending score of 4-16, landing Thomas in the fourth place position.
Chandler Witzke came out for his quarter final match and won by major decision over Creytan Grimm (WBM) 11-2. For his semi-final match, Chandler lost by fall to Spencer Griffin (Emmetsburg) in fifty-nine seconds. For his consolation match, Witzke won by fall over Tyler Gaes (AA) in two minutes and thirty five seconds. For his 3rd place match, Witzke was defeated by major decision by Spencer Roth (GTRA) 0-8 putting Witzke in fourth place.
Daviontae Williams came out in his quarterfinal match and won by fall over Coleman Grimm (WBM) in two minutes and fifty one seconds. For his semi-final match, Williams was beat by fall by Treyton Cacek (GTRA) in three minutes and fifty six seconds. For his constellation match, Williams won by fall over Jerod Campbell (SCC) in three minutes and twelve seconds. For his third place round, Williams was beat by decision by Carter Fluckiger (SEV) 5-8, securing fourth place Daviontae.
Overall, the 2018 Conference Meet was a outstanding meet for the Indians Wrestling Team. Having nine wrestlers place and 7/9 standing on the podium with fresh new medals in their hands. We only hope for a great finish to the season for our wrestlers as they now move toward their sectional meet on February 3, 2018.
Indians go 2-3 at Cherokee
by Natalie Hartley
On January, 11, the PAC wrestling team wrestled West Sioux, Ridge View, and Cherokee. In Jacob Mielke’s first match he wrestled Luis Ramirez from West Sioux and won that match with a Fall at 1:35. Shea Ruffridge’s first match was with David Chavez and he won that match with a Fall at 1:21. Thomas Melohn and Saul Ortiz competed and went into overtime and Thomas defeated Saul Ortiz.. Chandler Witzke went against Jeshua Cervantes and Chandler defeated Jeshua with a fall at 2:58. Tyler Reis defeated Junior Lopez with a fall at 0:57. And Philip Minkler defeated Kyler Bak with a fall at 0:56. The Pocahontas Indians fell short to West Sioux with the score of 33-45. The second match of the night featured the Pocahontas Area Indians versus Ridge View. Shea Ruffridge, Chandler Witzke, Drake Jones, Phil Minkler and Tyler Vick all won by forfeit. Thomas Melohn competed against Dylan Wood and defeated him with a fall at 1:03. Daviontae Williams competed against Cam Steffens and defeated him with a fall at 4:16. Keegan Jepsen competed against Tate Phillips and defeated him with a fall at 1:57. The Pocahontas Area Indians defeated Ridge View with a score of 54-21.
During the final match of the night the Pocahontas Area Indians are competing against Cherokee. Tyler Vick competed against Simon Mummert and defeated him with a fall at 0:42. Shea Ruffridge competed against Hunter Shaw and defeated him with a fall at 0:07. Chandler Witzke defeated Cael Wood by decision. Tyler Reis defeated Bronsan Reis by decision. Phillip Minkler competed against Danen Pierce and defeated him with a fall at 0:44. Lamar Meusburger and Keegan Jepsen each won by forfeit. Jacob Mielke defeated Mason Hill by major decision. The Pocahontas Area Indians defeated Cherokee with a score of 40-21
by Natalie Hartley
On January, 11, the PAC wrestling team wrestled West Sioux, Ridge View, and Cherokee. In Jacob Mielke’s first match he wrestled Luis Ramirez from West Sioux and won that match with a Fall at 1:35. Shea Ruffridge’s first match was with David Chavez and he won that match with a Fall at 1:21. Thomas Melohn and Saul Ortiz competed and went into overtime and Thomas defeated Saul Ortiz.. Chandler Witzke went against Jeshua Cervantes and Chandler defeated Jeshua with a fall at 2:58. Tyler Reis defeated Junior Lopez with a fall at 0:57. And Philip Minkler defeated Kyler Bak with a fall at 0:56. The Pocahontas Indians fell short to West Sioux with the score of 33-45. The second match of the night featured the Pocahontas Area Indians versus Ridge View. Shea Ruffridge, Chandler Witzke, Drake Jones, Phil Minkler and Tyler Vick all won by forfeit. Thomas Melohn competed against Dylan Wood and defeated him with a fall at 1:03. Daviontae Williams competed against Cam Steffens and defeated him with a fall at 4:16. Keegan Jepsen competed against Tate Phillips and defeated him with a fall at 1:57. The Pocahontas Area Indians defeated Ridge View with a score of 54-21.
During the final match of the night the Pocahontas Area Indians are competing against Cherokee. Tyler Vick competed against Simon Mummert and defeated him with a fall at 0:42. Shea Ruffridge competed against Hunter Shaw and defeated him with a fall at 0:07. Chandler Witzke defeated Cael Wood by decision. Tyler Reis defeated Bronsan Reis by decision. Phillip Minkler competed against Danen Pierce and defeated him with a fall at 0:44. Lamar Meusburger and Keegan Jepsen each won by forfeit. Jacob Mielke defeated Mason Hill by major decision. The Pocahontas Area Indians defeated Cherokee with a score of 40-21
Indian Grapplers Take on Tough Algona and Spirit Lake
by Jace Davidson
The Indian wrestlers took on the Algona Bulldogs and the Spirit Lake Indians at home before the long awaited Christmas break. The Red and Black started their night off with a close loss to the Algona Bulldogs (30-39). Shea Ruffridge, Thomas Melohn, Daviontae Williams, and Jacob Mielke all picked up pins for the Indians, while Tyler Reis and Philip Minkler both won by decisions.
Up next the Pocahontas club battled against the Indians from Spirit Lake. Jacob Mielke, Shea Ruffridge, and Phlip Minkler were the only Poky wrestlers to pick up a win. Mielke earned a quick pin over Noah Hughes (0:26), while Minkler and Ruffridge won by decision. Tyler Vick picked up a forfeit for the squad as well.
The Indians will have another home meet on Thursday, January 4th.
by Jace Davidson
The Indian wrestlers took on the Algona Bulldogs and the Spirit Lake Indians at home before the long awaited Christmas break. The Red and Black started their night off with a close loss to the Algona Bulldogs (30-39). Shea Ruffridge, Thomas Melohn, Daviontae Williams, and Jacob Mielke all picked up pins for the Indians, while Tyler Reis and Philip Minkler both won by decisions.
Up next the Pocahontas club battled against the Indians from Spirit Lake. Jacob Mielke, Shea Ruffridge, and Phlip Minkler were the only Poky wrestlers to pick up a win. Mielke earned a quick pin over Noah Hughes (0:26), while Minkler and Ruffridge won by decision. Tyler Vick picked up a forfeit for the squad as well.
The Indians will have another home meet on Thursday, January 4th.
Tiger-Knight Invitational
by Drake Jones
Last Saturday, the Indian Wrestlers went to Carroll for the Tiger-Knight Invitational. The Indians fought hard and long with two wrestlers placing first and another two getting second.
One of the Indians that made it all the way to the the top was Jacob Mielke (JR). Jacob took the gold by a decision of 4-1 over Benjamin Schmitz (Kuemper). Shea Ruffridge (SR) also took first by fall over Noah Barker (Ames).
Placing second were Tyler Vick (SO) and Philip Minkler (SR). Tyler lost in the first place match by major decision, 8-0, to Daltin Roest (Manson). Philip dropped his first place match by decision, 3-0, to Gabe Greenlee (Ames). The next tournament the Indians will be at will be in Ames on January 6, 2018. Good luck wrestlers.
by Drake Jones
Last Saturday, the Indian Wrestlers went to Carroll for the Tiger-Knight Invitational. The Indians fought hard and long with two wrestlers placing first and another two getting second.
One of the Indians that made it all the way to the the top was Jacob Mielke (JR). Jacob took the gold by a decision of 4-1 over Benjamin Schmitz (Kuemper). Shea Ruffridge (SR) also took first by fall over Noah Barker (Ames).
Placing second were Tyler Vick (SO) and Philip Minkler (SR). Tyler lost in the first place match by major decision, 8-0, to Daltin Roest (Manson). Philip dropped his first place match by decision, 3-0, to Gabe Greenlee (Ames). The next tournament the Indians will be at will be in Ames on January 6, 2018. Good luck wrestlers.
PAC Grapplers Compete at Clarion
by Jace Davidson
The PAC wrestling squad competed at the Clarion Duals on Monday, December 14, 2017. They grappled against Humboldt, Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, and Hampton-Dumont. The Indians went an overall of 1-2, with the only victory coming over Hampton-Dumont with the ending score of 48-27. While suffering a heavy loss against Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, 18-55, the boys managed to come back and made it a close one with Humboldt resulting in 33-34 loss. Senior leader, Shea Ruffridge, looked like he couldn’t be stopped last Monday. Ruffridge went 3-0 on the day, and pinned all of his opponents in the first period. Overall the Indians battled till the end, as they continue to get better.
by Jace Davidson
The PAC wrestling squad competed at the Clarion Duals on Monday, December 14, 2017. They grappled against Humboldt, Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, and Hampton-Dumont. The Indians went an overall of 1-2, with the only victory coming over Hampton-Dumont with the ending score of 48-27. While suffering a heavy loss against Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, 18-55, the boys managed to come back and made it a close one with Humboldt resulting in 33-34 loss. Senior leader, Shea Ruffridge, looked like he couldn’t be stopped last Monday. Ruffridge went 3-0 on the day, and pinned all of his opponents in the first period. Overall the Indians battled till the end, as they continue to get better.
Four Indian Grapplers Take Home Gold
by Chase Boeve
The Indian wrestling team jotted over to Humboldt last Friday to compete in the annual Joe Fitch Invitational wrestling tournament. Jacob Mielke, Shea Ruffridge, Phil Minkler, and Tyler Reis all stood on top of the podium after the tournament was finished.
Jacob Mielke (106) cruised into the 1st place spot after winning his first match with a fall in 0:37, his second with a fall in 1:33, and ended the day with a 10-5 decision over Atlantic’s Joe Weaver.
The first tournament of the year was no trouble for PAC’s 3-time state qualifier and 2-time state placewinner, Shea Ruffridge, at 126 pounds. Ruffridge pinned his way through the bracket and earned himself his first gold medal of the year.
Junior, Tyler Reis, made his way into the championship match after a 13-3 major decision in his first match, then a pin in both his second and third matches before having to face the 2A #10 ranked Zak Hulsing of Kuemper Catholic. Reis pulled off the HUGE upset, winning the match 5-4 and securing himself a first place spot in the tournament.
The last gold medal winner of the night was Red and Black’s 182 pounder, Phil Minkler. Minkler received a bye his first round, then 2 pins in his next two matches. He came out victorious over Hunter Egdorf of Humboldt with a score of 4-3 in the finals.
Sophomores Tyler Vick and Chandler Witzke both earned fourth place medals.
As a team, the Indians racked up 192 points as a team, securing them a 5th place spot. They will be traveling to Gilmore City on December 5th to take compete in their second dual of the season.
by Chase Boeve
The Indian wrestling team jotted over to Humboldt last Friday to compete in the annual Joe Fitch Invitational wrestling tournament. Jacob Mielke, Shea Ruffridge, Phil Minkler, and Tyler Reis all stood on top of the podium after the tournament was finished.
Jacob Mielke (106) cruised into the 1st place spot after winning his first match with a fall in 0:37, his second with a fall in 1:33, and ended the day with a 10-5 decision over Atlantic’s Joe Weaver.
The first tournament of the year was no trouble for PAC’s 3-time state qualifier and 2-time state placewinner, Shea Ruffridge, at 126 pounds. Ruffridge pinned his way through the bracket and earned himself his first gold medal of the year.
Junior, Tyler Reis, made his way into the championship match after a 13-3 major decision in his first match, then a pin in both his second and third matches before having to face the 2A #10 ranked Zak Hulsing of Kuemper Catholic. Reis pulled off the HUGE upset, winning the match 5-4 and securing himself a first place spot in the tournament.
The last gold medal winner of the night was Red and Black’s 182 pounder, Phil Minkler. Minkler received a bye his first round, then 2 pins in his next two matches. He came out victorious over Hunter Egdorf of Humboldt with a score of 4-3 in the finals.
Sophomores Tyler Vick and Chandler Witzke both earned fourth place medals.
As a team, the Indians racked up 192 points as a team, securing them a 5th place spot. They will be traveling to Gilmore City on December 5th to take compete in their second dual of the season.
|
|
|
|
|
INDIANS SEND THREE TO STATE
BY TYLER VICK
|
|
The Iowa 2017 Class 2A State Wrestling Tournament was held on Thursday, February 16, and Friday, February 17, in the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The Pocahontas Area Laurens-Marathon wrestling team sent three of its wrestlers to state after they had placed in the top two places at districts. The three teammates that advanced to state were Jacob Mielke at 106, Shea Ruffridge at 120, and Clayton Reis at 145. This was Jacob and Clayton’s first time qualifying for state in their high-school career. Shea Ruffridge was a third time state qualifier. This was also the second time that Shea placed 4th in the state tournament. Jacob Mielke lost to the state runner up in the first round 8-1, pinned Joe Jacobs in the third period in the consolation round, and lost to the seventh place winner 13-4. It was a major accomplishment for Jacob to qualify for state at as a sophomore! Shea Ruffridge won an extremely close match against Carter Cox and Nick Meling with a 1-0 decision in each of the matches and later lost to Blake Steege in a 14-6 decision. He then wrestled Zachary Thompson and lost in a 3-1 decision which placed Shea in 4th. Clayton Reis had a goal this year, and he accomplished it. He qualified for state! Great job this season to the state wrestlers and the rest of the wrestling team!
|
lynn moody invitational - team champions
indians begin the season strong
Shea Ruffridge, Junior, Begins Season Ranked #2 at 113
The Indian wrestling team began December with back-to-back meets. Thursday, December 1, the Indians travelled to Sioux Rapids. There they defeated Sioux Central 78-0 and fell to Storm Lake 54-27. The following day they competed in the Joe Fitch Invitational at Humboldt. The Indians finished fifth behind, Atlantic, Humboldt, Emmetsburg, and Kuemper, scoring a 150 point team total.
Shea Ruffridge (2A, second ranked, 113) brought home the gold for the Indians with a 10-7 decision in the championship match (113) at the Joe Fitch Invitational. He also notched two victories in the dual vs. Sioux Central and Storm Lake, pinning both opponents. Tyler Reis (152) brought home the silver for the Indians at the Joe Fitch Invite, while Jacob Mielke (106), Cage Ahrends (138), and Tim Elliot (285) settled for bronze. Indian grapplers, Mielke (106), Ruffridge (113), Arends (138), Clayton Reis (145), and Elliott (238) each finished the day undefeated at the duals hosted by Sioux Central.
The Indians home wrestling opener will be held Thursday, December 8, at the Pocahontas high school gym. Come on out and support the Indians!
Shea Ruffridge (2A, second ranked, 113) brought home the gold for the Indians with a 10-7 decision in the championship match (113) at the Joe Fitch Invitational. He also notched two victories in the dual vs. Sioux Central and Storm Lake, pinning both opponents. Tyler Reis (152) brought home the silver for the Indians at the Joe Fitch Invite, while Jacob Mielke (106), Cage Ahrends (138), and Tim Elliot (285) settled for bronze. Indian grapplers, Mielke (106), Ruffridge (113), Arends (138), Clayton Reis (145), and Elliott (238) each finished the day undefeated at the duals hosted by Sioux Central.
The Indians home wrestling opener will be held Thursday, December 8, at the Pocahontas high school gym. Come on out and support the Indians!
