WWW.OhioWrestler.com would like to thank Brian Brakeman for all the hard work it took putting out the High School Wrestling Forecast and for the opportunity to share it with all our loyal e-patrons.

Introduction

The object of these annual reports encompasses two basic goals.  First is to acquaint everyone with the basic character of each weight class and identify the participants who are likely to play a major role in its resolution.  In addition, each district is examined as to whom its’ representatives might be.  Second is to stimulate interest in the whole State tournament process throughout Ohio.  Naturally, accuracy is also of primary concern, so care is taken to develop the most comprehensive list possible of outstanding wrestlers, though of necessity, the evaluation of their final place is, in part, subjective.  This report was written during a ten-day period ending January 20, based on the information available at that time.  It’s kind of a snapshot in time, with a picture that will surely change in many ways by tournament time.  Certainly many of those listed at weight classes where they are currently certified will move up for competitive reasons or because they cannot make the 50 percent rule.  In fact, some of those moves may well be precipitated by information contained within this document.

There are several ways you can help make this report more accurate.   First by sending me bracket sheets for tournaments you enter either by fax or mail – I’m especially interested in sectional and district bracket sheets this year and any tournaments for next year.   Also, phone calls, or better yet, e-mail messages dealing with results, weight class selection, or whatever, are gratefully received.  I especially appreciate coaches who provide an honest overview of their squad and superior wrestlers they’ve seen in competition.  Already I get messages and information from too many people to name individually, but I appreciate it all.

Brian Brakeman

23225 Hardwick Road

Shaker Hts., OH  44122

Fax No.: 330-659-2359                     E-mail:  cherylabrake@aol.com

This report is also available on the Internet on Gary Baumgartner’s website as well as Brecksville High School’s website:

http://www.baumspage.com

http://www.brecksvillewrestling.com

©2004– Reproduction of this material for profit without written consent is prohibited.

And remember, my usual fee is a wrestling T-shirt – XL.

(and that includes all your Internet readers)

Division III

During the late 1990’s, the quality of competition in Division III reached its apex.  This golden age lasted for, perhaps, five years and featured superstars such as Tommy Rowlands, Clark Forward, Harry Lester, Jared Opfer and many others.   That level has not been sustained and this year, it has cycled down to a much lower point.  Some Division III schools like Beachwood, Brookville and Keystone with strong teams and/or a few outstanding wrestlers, have moved up to Division II partly because some very small schools have fielded fledgling teams.  In addition, some wrestlers have opted to attend high schools with stronger programs and schedules than their Division III counterparts.  Whatever the reasons, many of the weight classes lack the up-top strength and depth that we have seen in the past.

103 #

Projected Champion:  PAYNE LINT  (CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS)

Top Contenders

One of the popular (and effective) strategies in working toward a state title is to crush the top opposition during the regular season.  Achieving physical and mental domination smoothes the path during the difficult weekends in late February.  Opponents can’t have a positive outlook and a confident stride if they’ve been manhandled just a few short weeks in the past.  That’s why I found Lint’s match with Mike Wilson over the holidays so interesting.  These were two of the top contenders at this weight class meeting at a major tournament.  Lint, who had defeated Wilson in overtime last year, quickly raced to a commanding 8-1 lead and looked overpowering.  I foresaw a major decision and a leg up on weight class domination.  Instead, Lint appeared to go on cruise control and let Wilson get back in the match, although he hung on to win 11-9.  All it did was provide Wilson with evidence that, with a stronger first period, he can beat Lint.  It was, perhaps, from Lint’s perspective, an opportunity wasted.

Nonetheless, Lint is still my favorite to take the title at their weight class.   He was 3rd last year, losing only to Wyant (by two points) and has compiled an outstanding record this year, capped by his title at Brecksville, over Division II state runner-up Madison Davis.  He has great workout partners, tourney experience, and an excellent coach, which should be a recipe for a state title. 

The aforementioned Wilson and Evans are Lint’s two biggest threats.  Wilson was district champ last year (with three tech falls) and won two state bouts--losing only to Gardella and Lint in overtime.  This year, he was 3^rd at Brecksville, beating Evans 9-3 for the third place.  Evans has now lost twice to Wilson, but the 4^th at Brecksville in his first outing of the year was impressive.  He followed that up with the title at Perrysburg and could be a possible finalist if Wilson and Lint are in the same half.

Surprisingly, the strongest district may well be at Xenia.  There are six well-credentialed wrestlers there who have upset potential when facing my top trio.  State placer Austin is very tough and gave Lint a good bout before losing 9-6 last year.  State qualifier Jarod Smith comes from a very small school, but he defeated Evans last year in overtime.  Still, I believe Preece might be the best 103-pounder here.  A transfer from Triad, he was a state alternate last year at 112# -- moving up because of two-time champ Wyant.  This year, he defeated Austin to win the GMVWA, and as a senior, may be one of the strongest 103’s.  Also, in the mix is the freshman, Thome (Casey, not Jim), who also has a win over Austin, Strickland, and Segovia.  The Xenia District was the poorest performing district of all 12 that feed into the state meet, but this group might help turn that around.  Also, just back is district qualifier Amanda Breezley, coming off a fractured arm.  She won the Reading Invitational her first week back. 

Lint should pretty much have his own way at Mentor with only the exceptional freshman, Boing, as a possible challenger.  He was 3^rd at the Junior High States and has been a steady placer for Chanel--2^nd at Solon and 3^rd at Wadsworth.  Evans should face little competition at the Owens District.  I’ve struggled to find much there and so far, have failed to unearth anyone with even low state place potential.  Much the same is true at Coshocton, though Wright or Fred Wilson are somewhat better than the rest of that field. 

112 #

Projected Champion:  LEVI WYANT  (TRIAD)

Top Contenders

It’s very unusual for opponents to meet in the state finals two years in a row.  Non-congruent growth patterns, the natural inclination for superstars to seek different weight classes, and just the sheer difficulty of making it to the state finals, generally precludes such an outcome.  The last time it happened in Division III was in 1985 (extra credit for knowing the wrestlers), but it certainly has a reasonable probability of occurring this year.  On one side, we have two time state champ Levi Wyant, who has moved up a weight class in this, his senior year.  He has displayed an uncanny skill in winning close bouts early in state competition. Twice, he has triumphed in overtime bouts in past years and two other times, by the margin of a takedown.  However, he has had brilliant final rounds, winning handily both years.  The victim last year was two-time state placer Oliver Gray, who has also moved up to this weight class.

Wyant has had a strong upgrade on his schedule, placing at the Ironman and beating the excellent Llanas at Wadsworth.  He should be primed for his run at a third state title.  He’ll face tough competition this year, but he is probably five points better than most of his challengers.  Still, I think he’ll be pushed to the brink in at least one bout (Koballa), but that is where his experience should pay off.

Two-time state placer, Gray, doesn’t wrestle the same rigorous schedule as Wyant, but he is very good.  Last year, he cruised through his tough district and was barely challenged at Columbus, until losing to Wyant 9-4.  This year, he won at the Gorman and is undefeated at 112#, but I don’t think he has cut into that five-point margin.  On the other hand, Koballa looks very good to me.  Last year, he lost first-round bouts at district and state by identical 2-1 scores at 112#.  Despite that, he placed at districts and won a bout at State (both times losing to Corey Opfer).  This year, he was 2^nd at Solon-- losing by 2 to Division I state runner-up Jordan Brown--and 3^rd at Wadsworth.  He has wrestled a very tough schedule and knows how to win tense, low-scoring bouts.  He and Gray are clearly the best out of Mentor.

I see three potential challengers to Wyant--Gray and Koballa--out of Mentor and Adam Tinnel from Owens.  The exceptional freshman Tinnel has really been impressive.  A state junior high champ last year, he is going to win some high school state titles.   He has won at Bellevue, Plymouth, and Edison--defeating state placer Lee, 6-0--and was 4^th at Brecksville, losing only to the champion, Ben Johnson and defaulting in the consolation finals.  Fearless, he’ll not be intimidated by Wyant.  The last three spots at Owens will be fiercely contested with state qualifier, Starr, battling Weller, Froehlich, Scarberry, Foos, and the freshman Hermes.   District finalist, Starr, has struggled somewhat this year, but may be ready to have a strong second half.  Both Weller and Scarberry just missed state qualification last year and should be primed for another run at it.  I particularly like Weller, who has been at 125# to make it. 

Now that state qualifier Cory Lemaster has dropped to 112#, there is a clear favorite at the Coshocton District.  He was 3^rd at the district last year, losing only in overtime to the excellent Wilson and went 1-2 at States.  He’s been at 119# all year with good success, but should be even better at this class, which is weak in this area.  The other three qualifiers are in for a tough time at Columbus, although state alternate, Wetzel, has upset potential.

However, Wyant will be backed up by some experienced personnel from the Xenia District at States.   State qualifiers Long, Fletcher and Kleman all should be competitive this time.  Between them, however, they were 0-6 at Columbus last year.  Still, I think a low place is possible.  Watch out for Traugh, who has put together a great seaon. 

Danny Hanson (Richmond Hts.) and Alan Neikirk (Cardinal) met in consecutive state finals in 1984 and 1985.  They also met in the district finals those two years with four-time state champ Hanson winning all four bouts.

119 #

Projected Champion:  BRAXDON SCALETTA  (CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS)

Top Contenders

During the past three years, 79% of all state champions were also district champions.  So that is clearly a strong correlate of success.  That achievement may be even more important at this weight class, where winning the Mentor District will be vital.  With three of the top contenders at Mentor, the winner should be away from the other two in the state bracket and will also be opposite two of the other three district champs.  That translates into an enormous advantage in Columbus, one that should help vault that winner to the state title.    

My choice is Braxdon Scaletta, the fine junior from Cuyahoga Heights.  Scaletta has been 3^rd and 2^nd the past two years, but with a little luck, he might have even more impressive credentials.  As a freshman at 103#, he met eventual state champion Levi Wyant in the semi-finals and from my perspective, appeared to have slightly the better of it.   However, a late Wyant score put the bout into overtime with Scaletta losing on a scrambling takedown.  Then, last year in the state finals, he met Kevin Lipp, who he had defeated the previous weekend at the district level.  Ahead, he got pinned in the 2^nd period, dashing his hope for a state crown.  It was reminiscent of his final round in the state junior high tourney where Kevin’s brother, Jordan, eked out a narrow 3-2 decision.  This year, Scaletta will put those disappointments behind him by winning his first state title.

Scaletta will face vigorous opposition at Mentor.  Gardella was 4^th last year at 103#, as he showed incredible improvement during the course of the season.  He took Wyant into overtime before losing and then fell to Lint in the consolation finals.  This year, he lost to state champion Kevin Lipp in overtime in the Solon final and placed at Wadsworth.  Also at Mentor is state qualifier Shane Marthey, who looked devastating at Richmond Heights Division III tourney.  Now a senior, he looks much more comfortable at this weight class and has excellent chances for a high place.  The fourth state berth at Mentor could be wide open.

Some last minute certification maneuvers have toughened up the field at 119# in the Owens District.   State placer Lee, after flirting with the 112# class, has certified at 119# and should do well.  State qualifiers Ryan Tinnel and Amburgey are also here and this is the third year they have been at the same weight class.  Tinnel won their most recent meeting at Plymouth, but Amburgey has also won in the past in this ongoing series.  Amburgey is one of those enigmatic wrestlers whose results cannot be predicted.  He can be brilliant as he was at the D-3 classic and, at other times, quite ordinary.  Tinnel is much more consistent, but does not have the large upside like Amburgey.  Other possibilities are Buehrer, the sophomore Lopez--just down from 125#--Geesey, Schreiner (Sandusky St. Mary), and Braden (Norwalk St. Paul).

There are four state qualifiers competing at this weight class at Cochocton.  Skoff, Minner, Gossett and Magers could fill up the state bracket assuming the pairings work out well with Conklin ready to slip in if they don’t.   Of that top quartet, Skoff and Gossett would appear to be the most dangerous threats, but Minner can be very good.  Minner has been at 130# much of the year, so it has been difficult to judge exactly where he’ll fit in at this weight class. I like Skoff a lot and thought he might have worn down toward the end of last season. Still, he won two state bouts and missed placement when he lost to Lee. 

Gossett also won a state bout and, again, how he’ll match up with others is problematical since he has been at 125#.  He and Minner split two bouts at last year’s district with Gossett winning the second in a decisive manner.  Magers might be the weak link here.  Conklin missed state qualification by a point, and Murray (Grandview Hts.) and Prickett could also challenge.  

State placer Bernholt is the best hope out of Xenia with state placers Steiner and Robbe a step behind.  However, all three are capable of winning at the state level and potentially garnering a low place.  Steiner, like Skoff, lost his state placement bout, while Bernholt won two squeakers to make the semi-finals before getting bombed three times.  Robbe is a three time state qualifier who has yet to win a bout in the championship round (though he has a consolation win), but who should rectify that this year.  Nobody else here is in their class, unless Long decides to compete at 119# rather than 112#.

125 #

Projected Champion:  CHRIS HAMED  (WOODBRIDGE)

Top Contenders

I was very surprised that none of the top 130’s dropped to 125#.  As you’ll shortly read, that’s a very crowded weight class with at least four potential state champs in the mix.  From my vantage point, this weight class looks far more congenial.  Still, even without them, there is solid talent here, though many are not as well known as they should be.  My choice is the experienced Woodridge senior, Chris Hamed, who has oscillated between schools and classifications for four years.  As a freshman, he was the best backup in the state at 103# for CVCA, but did not certify at that class.  When Wade went out, he was not eligible to replace him, although he certainly had state placement potential even then.  His sophomore year was at Woodridge, where he placed 4^th at 119#. Last year, Woodridge was Division II and Hamed was a state quarterfinalist before losing to state champion LaFollette and three-time placer, Reichman 1-0.  This year, he was 2^nd at Richmond Heights, defaulting in the finals and 4^th at Wadsworth, up a weight class at 130#.  He’ll need to be at the top of his game to win, but this should finally be his year.

As things are currently configured, Hamed should have little trouble at the Mentor District.   I don’t see anyone there who can challenge him so he should come into the state meet both well rested and a district champ.

The two best districts are at Coshocton and Owens.  At the former, there are three returning state qualifiers and a sophomore who might be better than any of them.  Kagey and Terry were both state quarter-finalists last year, although neither of them ended up placing.   They have all done well this year becoming finalists in almost every event.  However, I don’t see any of them defeating Hamed.  But each of them has placement potential, much of which will depend on their district placement and sub-sequent state pairing.  The wild card here is Nicola.  He was the OVAC champ at 112#, defeating the excellent Lucas Huffman, but did compete at sectionals.   His only loss this year was a lightning quick pin by three-time placer, Reichman.  He has tremendous upward potential, and could be a major factor at this weight class if he can maintain consistency.  He blew away the field at Marion Harding and he needs to maintain that level.

There are also challengers at Owens.  Two-time state qualifier, Matt Bloniarz, won two state bouts last year, just failing to place.  State qualifier, Rufenacht, also missed placement by one win and he exits the same sectional, so they should be apart at the district level.  Rufenacht won the “A” Classic and beat Kunisch in their dual meet.  State qualifier, Kunisch, and Abair are solid secondary candidates with Schalk another half step behind.   Watch out for the freshman, Sowers (good wrestling genes) and Schmitz.

All of the Carlisle wrestlers have moved down a weight class mixing up my lovingly created lists.   Jory Brown is probably the best, now that everything has been revised.  He lost an 18-11 go-to-state bout at 130# last year, and should do even better at this lower weight. Kendig was 4^th at Perrysburg and may be the finalist here, opposite Brown.   After this duo are a whole host of potential challengers.  Young has had a great year, while Beach had two district wins last season.  Barga and Etzler (Lincolnview) are also possibilities with Levy and Lindsey (Landmark Christian) long shots.

130 #

Projected Champion:  DREW SCHAFER  (monroeville)

Top Contenders

This is probably my favorite weight class in Division III, featuring a wide variety of styles and body types.  It is a deep weight class with excellent contenders from each of the four districts.  With such a diversity of style and form, the pairings will be critical, but should work out reasonably well.  There are four wrestlers who have already finished either 2^nd or 3rd and at least that number of others who have past state experience.  It is a particularly crowded weight class because Jaggers and Shearer dominate the next two weight classes, leaving many little choice but 130#.  Let’s look at some of the top contenders.

Schafer was 2^nd last year at 119# after finishing 6^th two years before.   His only loss last year was in the state finals to Keyes, who he had defeated the previous week at districts.  He looked absolutely devastating at Richmond Heights, decimating the best weight class there capped by a second period fall over the redoubtable Emery.   Schafer and Opfer exit the same sectional and district, which should help Schafer acclimate to Opfer’s unusual style.  The question is will that be enough for Schafer to win Monroeville’s first state title.

Corey Opfer is, without a doubt, the most unorthodox of this group.  There isn’t a risk-laden hold he doesn’t love and his bouts are almost always the most entertaining of the night.  Always looking to score (or better yet, pin), he takes the most chances, but his fundamentals and athleticism generally carry the day.  He finished 3^rd both as a freshman and a sophomore, losing both times to Lucas Huffman (who has since graduated). Up three weight classes, he won the Midwest Classic and was 2^nd in overtime at Brecksville. The big question is can I pick him for a third time, after two previous failures.

Whenever I see the name Tucker linked to Martins Ferry, I know we’re talking about state placement.  Two years ago, Tucker lost in the first round at 103# and came back to get 4^th.  Last year, he won his first three state bouts 15-0, 16-4 and 17-6, but then was pinned by Caruso and finished 2^nd.  He’s settled in nicely at 130# and could easily win it all this year.  He beat Schafer, 5-1, two years ago.  He’ll be the top seed should he win his district.  So at least two of this top group will automatically be away from him. 

I know the least about Franz.  A solid senior, he was 3^rd at 125#, losing to Caruso in the semi-finals.  For their area, Waynesville wrestles a touch schedule and his nine losses last year are a testament to that rigor.  This year, he won at Xenia and had a perfect record the last time I looked.  He’ll be on the same side of the bracket as the Opfer/Schafer winner – assuming he wins his district.

The district breakouts are interesting.  The deepest schedule of competitors is at Owens.  We’ve already discussed Opfer and Schafer, but there is much, much more.  The trio of state qualifiers, Gombash and Hill along with Sendelbach, are all very good.  Gombash won his district last year, winning every bout in less than six minutes, but then went 1-2 at Columbus.  He looked raggedy at Brecksville, but it was his first event of the year.  Hill was a district runner-up and he placed 6^th, losing to Tucker (badly) and Franz.  Sendelbach has come on strong, finishing 4^th at Richmond Heights--including a one-point loss to Hill--and winning at Hopewell-Loudon, Plymouth, and the “A” Classic-- including a one-point win over Hill.  At least one of this group will fail to qualify and with Schultz (who beat Kief, 7-3), Reer (a great freshman) and Knisely also here, nobody is safe.  At the same time, state qualifier, Coleman, has also certified here, but I’ve ranked him at 135# since that is my guess as to where he might compete.

Tucker should dominate at Coshocton, but there is a strong under card.  Navarra was a state qualifier two years ago, but lost out last year, losing to eventual state placer, Jarrod Anderson, 2-1, in his go-to-state bout after being pinned by Tucker in the semi-finals.  He has looked good this year and should return to Columbus. 

The unheralder, Urling, was a state alternate last year and should vie one of the last two spots with Bond, Dobereiner, Smith, Melko and Nutbrown.  Wyse might be the kind of long shot you’d put some money on.  Again, Cottrill certified at 130#, probably as a way of keeping his options open.  I’ve rated him at 135# (where he could well be a district champ), but he would rate highly here, too, if he actually does move.

Franz will be joined by state qualifiers Kief and Schindledecker at Xenia.  Kief, a move-in from Indiana, was a district champ last year and won a state bout.  This year, he was 3^rd at GMVWA.  Shindledecker cannot be overlooked.  He was a district runner-up at this weight class last year and won two state bouts, falling just short of placing.  He was 3^rd at the “A” Classic this year (behind Sendelbach and Hill), and his sectional movement to Xenia rather than to Owens (as it was last year), will make qualification much easier.  After this trio, it is wide open with the young Stapleton, Crowley and Keuterman possibilities.

Mentor is uncharacteristically weak.  I like former state qualifier Jacob Bill, who, rather shockingly, did not get out last year after getting pinned by Schafer and losing narrowly to eventual place winner, Tomasone.  Cardinal has two excellent 130’s in Dulka and Morris.  Either one would do well here, so I’ve rated Dulka at this class--where he has been all year--and Morris at 135#.  They may switch at sectional time, however. Tomaino or Thomas are other thoughts.

135 #

Projected Champion:  J JAGGERS  (CHANEL)

Top Contenders

It took about 10 seconds to spot him.  I’ve seen tens of thousands of wrestlers, but an absolute novice could not have helped but recognize it.   The 7^th grader on the center mat was clearly one of The Chosen.  A precocious genius of the wrestling mat, who destroyed an excellent opponent to win a state title at the inaugural junior high state championships.  There aren’t many like him--but just seeing them once is enough for recognition. I said three years ago that he had a chance to be Ohio’s first six-time champion and that was not really a bold or daring prediction. In his last two state tourneys, no one has lasted six minutes and that was true when he won the prestigious Ironman, as well. None of Ohio’s 12 previous wrestlers, trying to win four titles, have lost and while the number thirteen is considered unlucky, it won’t happen this time either.   J. Jaggers has had an amazing high school career and one can expect that will continue at Ohio State. 

The battle here will be a hard fought, spirited one, but it will be for second place.  A key component in that struggle will be to draw away from Jaggers. Those who are sure to do so are the 2^nd and 3^rd place finishers at Mentor.  Likely to be in one of those positions is the very tough Kyle Huss. He was a state qualifier last year at this weight class in Division II, but had an awful draw. He got eventual champ Aaron Martin in the first round and then state placer, Ryan Morgan, after a consolation win and lost 3-1.  He has won titles at both North Canton and Canal Fulton, and will be a rugged challenge for everyone, but Jaggers. After him, state qualifier Martell, Morris, and, maybe, Chase are next best.

The deepest district is at Owens.  While Mark Blonairz and Coleman are both state qualifiers, I think Gliatta might be the best here.  He missed state qualification in 2003, but like his state champion brother of last year, he seems to be on a steep part of the learning curve.  At Brecksville, he lost to Roberts (3^rd in Division I), 4-3, and ended up 7^th, the highest Division III placer at that weight.  Certainly, Blonairz and Coleman should place at this district with Buckingham, Madden, Bodenbender and Rupp in the hunt.  I think Coleman (or Smith, if they move down) will end up second best here, but there will be a lot of close bouts on this bracket.

There is also good depth at Xenia, and the quality may be just as good.  District champ, Gambill, is now only a sophomore and he keeps getting better.  At Columbus, he lost two heartbreakers--one in the 30-second overtime and the other, 8-7.  This year, he won the GMVWA and will lock horns with Kyle Stapleton, the defending district champion at this weight class.  Stapleton, at 140# most of the year, was 6^th at that weight in the GMVWA, but he’ll be a major factor here.  Riley was a 5-4 loser to Gambrill at the GMVWA and he was a state qualifier at 119# last year.  Factor in state qualifier Waldman and Ison, and it’s clear somebody isn’t getting a return ticket to the Value Center Arena.  Two other possibilities are Pelkey and the outstanding freshman, Klaus.  One name I have not seen is state qualifier Wells (Bethel Tate) who was at this weight class earlier in the year.  His inclusion would make it even tougher to get out.

I don’t see a whole lot at Coshocton.  I rate state qualifier Cottrill and Brown as the areas top hopes.  But this will not be a strong weight class at this district.  It will even be weaker if Cottrill opts to wrestle at 130#, leaving the cupboard as bare as Old Mother Hubbard’s at this weight class.  Besides, those listed, Cataldo (Wellsville) and Waite (Shenandoah) should be checked out.

140 #

Projected Champion:  TANNER shearer  (sandusky st mary)

Top Contenders

As was the case at the last weight class, one lone figure dominates this competition.  Two-time state champion, Tanner Shearer, has lost but four times in the last three years (with 118 wins) and not once to a Division III competitor.  It would be an enormous surprise if he were to be upset at the state meet, given his tough, mistake-free style.  At Brecksville, he beat the excellent Rohler in the semi-finals (pounding on him the last two periods) and deserved to win against my Division II choice, Morgan in the finals.  He had the only takedown and was, by far, the aggressor throughout the bout, but drew an official who apparently hadn’t heard there were rules against stalling. He lost in that horrible 30-second tiebreaker.  Nonetheless, despite some reasonably good opposition, Shearer should take his third state title, becoming the third boy from St. Mary to win at least that many.

Rather surprisingly for a weight class right at the peak of the bell shaped curve of the weight division, there are (except for Shearer) no returning state place winners.  Given that there is little power below Shearer, this is a weight class where exceptional freshman or under appreciated veterans could easily place.   At Coshocton, state qualifiers, Borders and Ferguson, along with state alternate, Fleming, probably head the strongest district.   The first two just missed placement last year and should overcome that barrier this year.  Ferguson wasn’t at the D-3 Classic, but was a strong 2^nd at Shadyside.   It may turn out that Fleming is now the best of this trio.  He missed state qualification by one point last year after qualifying the year before, and has been exceptional this year.  This is his third year at 140#.  Also in the mix is state alternate Miller, but Ferguson did beat him 14-2 last year in their go-to-state bout.  A dark horse candidate is Warren, who gave state qualifier, Frollini, a real battle at 145# at Bellaire St. John and has now moved down to 140#.

It is not as deep a group at Owens.  Coopman and state qualifier, Smith, might be next best after Shearer, but there is a large gap between them.   Coopman won at Hopewell-Loudon, while Smith has bounced between 135# and 140#.  Wisdom, winner at Plymouth and the “A” Classic, is also a factor, but, like Ferguson, did not compete at Richmond Heights.  I’m not seeing as many names at this district that looks like state material.

The most crowded field is at Xenia.  But this group has not competed well at the state level in the past.  I’ve divided this group into three categories--former state qualifiers, solid performers, and exceptional freshman.  In the first category, Spohn, Henry and Shafer all have state experience and I see them as relatively closely bunched.  Shafer has been hot lately, but Spohn has been better in the past.  Henry, perhaps, is a step behind them, though the Versailles boys do well in the late season.  The second group contains Loreaux, Bowers and Taylor--all of whom have the potential to vault over that first trio.  Finally, there is the freshman.  Falk, son of a three-time champ, clearly got the right genes, sweeping to the junior high state title.   Undefeated this year, he could be the surprise package at Xenia.  He has state champion skills and it’s more a question of when, rather than one of if.

Dierkes may be the best of a pretty low-key group of qualifiers out of Mentor.  The other possibility is Besancon, who just moved down from 145#.  His most recent win was at Chippewa where he took the title at 145#.  Both were state alternates last year with Besancon losing by one point in his go-to-state bout and Dierkes dropping his to eventual state runner-up Brandon Kertesz.  Kalina and Dillon are other top-of-the-mind possibilities, but there will be some surprises here.

145 #

Projected Champion:  jamison moss  (delta)

Top Contenders

My youngest daughter is a sophomore at Furman University, which is one of five most beautiful campuses in the country.  It is located in Greenville, South Carolina, which is also the final resting place of “Shoeless” Joe Jackson--probably the greatest natural hitter of all time.  An article written in 1932 interviewed all the great players of that time -- Ruth, Gehrig, Simmons, Foxx, Hornsby--and they all agreed that “Shoeless Joe” was the best they’d ever seen.  He was initially the property of the Philadelphia Athletics, but in his time there (40 at bats), he was a failure.  A pure country boy, Jackson was awed by the big city surroundings and needed time to adjust and he didn’t get it.  Cut loose by the Athletics, he signed with Cleveland shortly thereafter, and proceeded to hit .387 and .407 the first two seasons with them--and this in the “Dead Ball” era.

That came to my mind as I watched Delta over the holidays.  They looked slow, rusty, and out-of-synch, and poorly conditioned--a real surprise for one of the premier Division III programs in the state.  Then I learned that Delta had gone far into the football play-offs, had every scheduled event to that point cancelled, for one reason or another, and this was their first action of the season.  Suddenly, a whole different spin was put on their performance, and I, for one, think a shortened season for experienced wrestlers often keeps them fresher for the tournament weekends.

With that in mind, Jamison Moss is a relatively clear-cut choice.  Last year, as a sophomore, he crushed all four-district foes and then won three well wrestled bouts to reach the state finals.  Shearer then stopped him in his tracks, winning 7-0.  At Brecks-ville, he shook off the rust to finish 5^th and then got the OW while winning at Waite.  He’s very quick, knows how to ride, and he’s physically stronger than he was last year.  He’ll be tough to beat.

His biggest competition at the Owens District should come from the sophomore, Marc Hoff.  Also a district champ last year (at 140#), he won two state bouts and nearly placed.  He was 2^nd at Hudson and should get a middle to high state place this year.  Stuckey (Archbold) has certified at 145#, but will probably wrestle at 152#, which is where I rated him.  He would also be a factor at this class.  I think Baum may be third best here--he was 4^th at Brecksville, but did not meet Moss--and, if St. Mary builds momentum, he could place.  After him, there are a lot of options for the fourth state berth.

Knoop has placed 6^th and 5^th the last two years; so 4^th place would seem the logical progression.  I think he’ll do better than that. You know he’s real good because so many kids avoid him during the regular season.  He was a strong 2^nd at the GMVWA, losing only to Brulport, 11-9.  His problem at Columbus is winning in the first round--he’s 0-2 in the championship bracket and 6-3 in the consolation rounds.  State qualifier, Rammel, is the likely second choice at this district.   His upset win over Dustin Wright last year showed some first rate talent.  Then there is Redman, who lost an overtime decision in his go-to-state bout and now returns at the same weight.   After that, it’s people like Bogucki, Beisner and Lanham as top choices for the last two berths.

I think state qualifier, Doug Windom, also has finalist potential (along with Hoff, Connors, and Knoop) and like the others, has some probability of winning it all.  He was very impressive at the Richmond Heights D-3 tourney and should come into the state tourney as the district champ.  Last year, Hoff beat him 11-9 in the first round and Knoop, 7-6, in the first consolation round, so he knows well the competition he’ll face.  Allerding is also strong, finishing 2^nd at the Gorman, losing to Hoff, 4-0, in the finals.  Bockmore, Keough, and Sojka all should have state hopes, but it will be tough.  Adams may be one of those Chanel wrestlers who sneak through the bracket with a mediocre record, but having wrestled a tough schedule.

State qualifier, Connors, should also have high expectations this year.  A district champ last year, he won two state bouts and lost the other two both by a point--the latter against Knoop.  He has been successful at 152# this year and should be a huge factor here.  State qualifier, Frollini, is also good, with Hunkler and Bumbico providing back up.  Not a bad weight.

152 #

Projected Champion:  matt feron  (kirtland)

Top Contenders

This competition inaugurates a series of five weight classes that lack substantial depth and experience.  Of that quintet, this weight, at least as it is presently constituted, is the weakest of all. Paradoxically, this could also be one of the most interesting competitions to watch, as a form of parity has invaded Division III wrestling. We have exciting younger wrestlers, a few with state experience, some from smaller, lesser-known schools, and even a couple making comebacks from inactivity and injury.  The question is which of this group will step up at Value City and make it to the finals.   Still, I have this horrible, nagging feeling that I’ve missed somebody(s) who will play a significant role here.  Let’s look at some of the possibilities--although we certainly can’t discuss all of them.

Two years ago, Matt Fearon lost a first-round heartbreaker at Columbus, 9-8.  Then, he won four consolation bouts to finish 4^th at 145#.  Last year, he had a tough district, finishing 3^rd, including two tiebreaker wins with escapes.  After a narrow 6-5 first round State win, he lost close bouts to Bryant (who’s back) and Racheter (who’s not), and failed to place.  This year, he’s won at Hawken and the D-3 Classic, pinning Benedict in the final round.  He heads a pretty non-descript district that includes Stretar, who lost his go-to-state bout to Fearon last year, and a laundry list of other possibilities. That list includes Kisella, Keck, Moten, Foote and Snyder.

There are some perplexing competitors at Coshocton. Each has a resume that provides contradictory results. The best of this group is probably Baldridge, who was the district champ at this weight class last year, and a state quarter finalists.  In that bout, he took the eventual champ, Matt Shilek, to the wire before losing 10-9--Smilek won every other bout by at least six points. Then Baldridge got thumped 18-2 in the next consolation round.  This year, he won the Gorman (crushing a Division I state qualifier 12-2), but that was after losing three bouts in two weeks. Go figure. Irwin should be a strong challenger.  He was district 3^rd, losing only to two-time state champ Vogel, 4-1.  He won his first state bout before losing 6-5 to eventual state runner-up Sammons, and then was eliminated in the 30-second tiebreaker.  He has high placement potential in this, his senior year.  Irwin beat Benedict 8-6 at Shadyside, but lost to Bryant by a point earlier in the year.  Hannahs is solid with Leyda, Hepburn, Stewart and Gillham, also possibilities.

At one point in the year, Bryant moved to the top of my list at this class, and, perhaps, he still belongs there.  He was 5^th last year, making the state semi-finals and then losing two decisions before beating Racheter.  This year, he won at Bellaire (over Irwin), and was 3^rd at the GMVWA.  State qualifiers, Owens and Clum, also return, but they will be threatened by Boster, Dellaposta and Grant.  I can’t see Boster not going, so that leaves just two spots for everyone else--and we haven’t even brought the excellent Shannon into the picture yet.  This might be one of those rare occasions when two returning state qualifiers, at the same weight, fail to make it back.

There is much of the same type of confusion at Owens.  State qualifier, Hill, is back, but was 3^rd at the Gorman and 5^th at Hudson.  I think he is much better than that.  I see Stuckey wrestling at 152#, figuring it’s his best chance for high placement, along with the powerful Roll and Hogue, all contenders for a state berth.  Hogue missed by one bout going last year. The critical unknown is Cameron Whelan--twin brother of Joe, my choice at 160#.  He has not wrestled in about a year, but he was always talented.  He stepped right back into contention with at 5^th at Brecksville, losing only to Division I state qualifiers Zednik who he beat 10-1 for 5^th) and Monk.  He could be a real boost for St. Mary--as if they needed yet another one.  I also like Bugner, Welly, and Purdue, so this is a very crowded district.

160 #

Projected Champion:  Joseph whelan  (Sandusky st mary)

Top Contenders

Like 152#, this is another weight class that lacks depth and state experience.  The one major difference is that there is one dominating figure who deserves to be rated a solid favorite.  Whelan is a two-time state placer (4^th and 3^rd), who has continued his winning ways this year, including a clear-cut triumph at Brecksville.  A three-time state qualifier, he already has seven state tourney wins, whereas, every other current 160-pounder in the state has a combined total of three.   However, Whelan is certainly not upset-proof.   Two years ago, he was a district champ, but lost to Lohman (4^th in that same district), and finished 4^th.  Then, last year, again as district champ, he outscored his first two opponents 34-8 before, once again, losing in the semi-finals, 3-2, to Curt Thompson, who he had handled in the past.  He then watched Matt Smilek, a Whelan victim at the district level, defeat Thompson, 12-2, for the state crown.

Certainly, Whelan will need to maintain focus this year because, the next tier of wrestlers at this class, are good enough to spring an upset.  Two of those wrestlers will be at the same district as Whelan.  Joe Studer missed state placement by one bout, while going 2-2 at Columbus.  He has been in peak form all year, winning, for example, at the Gorman most recently, and finishing 4^th at one of the toughest weight classes at the GMVWA.  Right behind him is state qualifier McGaharan, who won at Northwood and Sylvania Southview and is very experienced.  He went 1-2 at Columbus last year.  There are two wild cards here.  One is Juan Lopez, a state qualifier two years ago, who has been out-of-sight most of the time since.  He is a terrific talent with huge upset potential. The other is Estep, who has been very impressive this year, with finalist appearances at Sheridan and Columbia Station.  More conventional picks include Gery, Hale, Overton and Mack. Meiring could also be a factor--if he doesn’t compete at 152#. 

Coming on strong in the Mentor District is senior, Bruce Brinkman.  He missed qualification by two points last year, but has been very sharp during the last month or so.  He most recently won at Chippewa, beating state placer, Eric Belliottie, 8-4, in the final round--a wrestler for whom I have a high regard.  The other possibility is Roppel, who qualified for Columbus two years ago.  He missed out last year (eliminated coinci-dentally by one of Brinkman’s teammates) and has been at 171# this year.  He was 5^th at Solon and should qualify here. I see little else at this district.  The freshman, Weakley, will eventually be very good (he was a state junior high runner-up), but he will probably not challenge the very top boys this year.  I must admit, though, he was impressive, winning the D-3 Classic and finishing a strong 2^nd at Solon.  Keep an eye on him.   The other good possibility is Wadsworth placer, Keller, who has also moved down to 160#.

The two top 160’s at Coshocton have a long history and I don’t think either has yet established dominance.  I recall that Case beat Bahmer last year and went to States, but this year, Bahmer has won several times and finished ahead of Case at Barnesville.  At any rate, I think they are the two best at this district.  Case not only won the title at Marion Harding over the holidays, but copped the OW, too.  Can they beat Whelan?   Well, Joe beat Case 17-1 in the state quarterfinals and that’s a lot of ground to make up.  However, stranger things have happened. There are some other possibilities here.   State qualifier Gruber returns and he lost to last year’s runner-up, Curt Thompson by only 8-6 in the first round, and then to Bellottie by the same score in the consolations.  He was 4^th at North Canton.  McDonald is 22-0, but will finally be tested at the CIT.  He missed state qualification by one point last year.  State qualifier Teeter has slipped off the radar screen, so maybe somebody like Fisher or Kibler will surface.

State qualifiers Duncan and Schmitmeyer head the Xenia sectional and should qualify once again.   They failed to win a bout at Columbus, and maybe not be a huge factor again this year.  State alternate Lehn may have surpassed both at this time.  The rest of my choices are scattered toward the bottom of the ranking table. There remains the possibility that Boster will try to qualify here.

171 #

Projected Champion:  spencer dye  (sandusky st mary)

Top Contenders

The record team total in Division III was set by Delta in 1998 when they scored 149.5 points eclipsing the previous mark held by Bishop Ready for 16 years.  This year, the convergence of two factors--a strong senior-dominated squad from Sandusky St. Mary and what appears to be a somewhat diminished pool of talent state-wide--may set up a challenge to Delta’s record.  No team has come within 20 points of that standard, but if everything were to go just right, St. Mary could challenge that total.  An important part of that process will be at 171#, where state runner-up, Spencer Dye, was upset at the district level, but wrestled well and met the favored Picazo in the finals.  In a slam-bang finale, Dye eventually lost 12-11 in the kind of bout I love to televise.  Dye, whose father won the first of St. Mary’s state titles in 1976, is a go-for-broke competitor who wrestles a lot of high scoring bouts.  With solid fundamentals, he looks for ways to score and is willing to take risks to do so.  Wouldn’t it be great if the rules of this sport encouraged more wrestlers to do so?

Before he has a chance to win that coveted state title, Dye has to advance out of the best of the four districts at this weight class. Sowers was 4^th at this class last year and has been great all year.  He won the GMVWA in handsome fashion, and his only loss was in the Gorman finale to the excellent Hiram Smith.  State qualifier Lichty also returns and could be a huge factor at both the state and district level.  Both Fox and Ball were state alternates at this weight last year. Ball lost to Lichty by a narrow 6-4 margin earlier this year.  That’s five excellent candidates for four spots, which means there’ll be some real heartbreak.  All four of the qualifiers could place.

The other deep district is at Coshocton.  However, in this case, there are only four good candidates for qualification and since the sectional pairings should line up, the bracketing should be good.  State placer Yoder leads the way, but Burkhart is right behind him (a 3-2 loss at their last meeting).  Last year, Yoder beat Sowers 14-4 in the quarterfinals, but then finished behind him.  Douce, the Medina champ, and Eichorn are also strong and have compiled solid track records over the past two years.  Eichorn was 3^rd at the Gorman, losing by two in the semi-finals to Sowers.

Goble heads a shallow Mentor district.  He was 6^th last year, after making the semi-finals and losing to eventual champ Smilek.  He was 2^nd at Medina, losing 6-2 to Douce.  McCraith won the D-3 Classic and has been very good.  He was upset by McMurphy earlier in the year, but I don’t think that will happen again.

Maybe, I’m missing something, but the Xenia district does not look formidable.  State qualifier Strasbaugh is back and he won at Plymouth and was 6^th at GMVWA.  After that, it’s folks like Garrison, Wettengel, and Curtis any of whom might upset Strasbaugh.   The four qualifiers out of Xenia may not generate even a single state placement.

189 #

Projected Champion:  Larry reichard  (new albany)

Top Contenders

When everyone anticipates a titanic two-man battle for the state title, it can be easy to overlook an unheralded newcomer.  I think that might have happened at this weight class last year.  Reichard was a state semi-finalist two years ago as a sophomore (finishing 5^th), and was slightly more than a co-favorite last year.  His principal adversary was seen as Scott Smith, who he had met many times previously.  However, their ultimate match up for the state title was thwarted by the athletic Mike Blackwell (now in Division II), who upset Reichard in the semis, 7-5.  Reichard wound up 3^rd, winning his other four bouts decisively, the closest being 8-0.  Early this year, I saw Reichard as a clear-cut favorite with no real peer at this class.  Now, I’m not so sure.  Hickey, a lower placer at 160# last year, has grown into a monster.  Suddenly, the boy who lost 16-1 in last year’s first round is now manhandling everyone.  I’m not sure I’m totally convinced yet, but one thing is for sure, Reichard needs to keep a wary eye on everyone this year.

Only Samsa should challenge Reichard at the Coshocton District.  A state qualifier last year at 171#, he lost to Dye in the first round, won two consolation bouts, and then lost 1-0 to Sowers in his placement match.  This year, he won big at Shadyside and Bellaire St. John and should meet Reichard in the district finals.  The remaining two state berths will be “up for grabs” with the “hot hand” getting a ticket to Columbus (two awful clichés in one sentence).

It looks like the same two-man contest at Xenia.  A pair of district champs head the field and should not receive more than minimal competition.   Eric Wright won this district at 171# and then won two state bouts just missing placement.  He apparently considered 171# again this year, but has certified at 189#.  He was 3^rd at the GMVWA, won by Haubert, but never met him.  Jones took the district title at this weight class, but could win but one bout at Columbus.  He won at Madeira and has been a finalist in every tournament he has wrestled.  They are clearly ahead of other possibilities here and a loss to anyone else would be a substantial upset.

As I said earlier, Hickey has been dominating this year in compiling an undefeated record.   He crushed Oxford and Beeghley at the D-3 Classic, where Schnittger finished 4^th.  The way I look at it, state qualifier Oxford and Kerchmar, a strong 4^th at Brecksville, are the two best after Hickey, with state alternate, DeWeese, also in that mix.  DeWeese missed the early part of the season, but was a district semi-finalist last year.  That leaves state qualifier Schnittger, Beeghly and Hershey in need of an upset to qualify.  Kerchmar has been excellent all year, but as a cautionary qualification note, Reichard defeated him 15-0.  

215 #

Projected Champion:  nate thobaden  (clinton massie)

Top Contenders

This is clearly one of the weaker weight classes in Division III with no dominant contenders anywhere in sight.  Unlike the last two years, where Stookey, Sowers, Nagel and Zaranec battled, there are no titanic bouts to anticipate.

As such, it presents opportunities to a wide range of participants who might, otherwise, be a non-factor at most other weight classes.  However, the one name that consistently appears in a positive light is Nate Thobaden.   He was 3^rd last year in Columbus after finishing in that same spot at the district level.  One huge positive is that he is a prolific pinner, getting four at the district level and two more at States.  He started this year at 275# (with great success) and now has moved down to 215#.  He won the GMVWA, registering five successive pins and is obviously much stronger than last year.  The big negative may be a schedule that fails to test on a consistent basis, and whether competition that results only in falls adequately prepares for the tough six-minute matches to come.  In my mind, those negatives are far outweighed by his strength and experience. 

It’s difficult to know from exactly what direction Thobaden’s prime opposition will originate.  For example, there is very little depth at Mentor, but there are two potential high placers.  Neither has state experience, but both have fashioned great senior years.  Bachna, apparently inspired by his teammate, Hickey, at 189#, is also undefeated this year and has been almost as devastating.  He had five first period falls at the D-3 and is currently 22-0.  He probably should have made it last year, but had a bad first round at districts and got lost in the consolation bracket. Dibell was 1^st at Canal Fulton Northwest (over Thoburn) and 3^rd at North Canton--an impressive showing.

There is more depth at Coshocton, but I’m not sure any of them stands a good chance against the very top boys.  Ellwood, Slutz, and Leach all qualified at this weight class last year, but none of them had wins in the championship bracket--though Elmwood and Leach had a consolation win. None of them have wrestled an overly demanding schedule, which could hurt them at tourney time.  Carr and Whitt will come over from the Central District sectionals to compete for state spots with Whitt an alternate last year.  Pretty good depth here, but no one that can challenge Thobaden.

There are two state qualifiers returning at Owens, but I’m wondering if state alternate Reinhart is now the best 215-pounder here.  He defeated state qualifier Girlie at the “A” Classic, and has moved past state qualifier Taynor as well.  His dominating win at Hopewell-Loudon over Xenia state qualifier, Mark Keiser, was impressive.  Also in the mix here are Kirchner, Endicott and Hessick, who all have solid district experience.  A dark horse contender is Spangler, who did not wrestle last year, but is slowly rounding into form for Delta.  He was runner-up at Perrysburg, signaling, perhaps, his state intentions next month.

The real qualification battle will be at Xenia.  I count at least seven candidates who could make it out.  Thobaden could be in real trouble if he makes a miscue here.  Included in this group is state placer Monroe, who has beaten a number of the best 215’s (in any class), including Tyler Zink twice. Thobaden did pin him last year.  State qualifier Keiser is also back, and he was a district finalist last year.  He finished ahead of both Thobaden and Monroe at the district level, but behind both of them at states-- where he lost in overtime to Monroe.  I think he could be in danger.  Nowlan beat him earlier in the year and state alternate Huck and Oswalt are both back.  Throw in Dick and Zaczek and it will be a great competition.

Hvy.

Projected Champion:  koel davia  (union local)

Top Contenders

The great crop of heavyweights we’ve seen the last two years in Division III have all graduated--that is all but one of them.  Koel Davia, now a senior, is the kind of wrestler who drives prognosticators crazy.  He has never won a district championship, never had an undefeated season, and never headed the list in this report, but has twice now won the state championship.  As a sophomore, he lost to Carothers in district competition, and narrowly won his first two state bouts (one in a tiebreaker) and then pinned in both semi-finals and state finals.  Last year, he was a district 4^th, losing, again, to Carothers and to Bartholomew, 9-3, but, again, won his second title.  A mammoth heavyweight, he’ll win his district and get the top ranking here on his way to a third state title.  It would be a most significant title.  He would become only the second heavyweight in Ohio high school wrestling history to win three state titles, and the first in exactly 50 years to accomplish that feat.   In 1954, the powerful Jim Dregalla, from Cleveland John Marshall, took his third championship defeating Les Nader at a time when there was only one wrestling classification. Should Davia succeed this year, it would be a monumental achievement.

I believe there to be a significant gap between Davia and the rest of the field, but we all know that “significant gaps” can quickly be surmounted with one Davia mistake.  Still, there is no one heavyweight that stands out as a particular threat.  In fact, it is difficult to determine who might be on the awards stand with Davia as the tournament comes to an end.  Only five other heavyweights have previous state experience and only one win in the championship bracket.

Two of those state qualifiers exit the Mentor District, but both could be in danger.  Ewing defeated Dzigiel in overtime in the district semi-finals and, later won two consolation bouts at Columbus.  A very small, mobile heavyweight, he is tough for the big boys to wrestle. He often seems to maneuver his way into overtime, where superior conditioning wins.  Ewing was 4^th at Wadsworth.  Dzigiel was 3^rd at Solon and is a good workmanlike heavyweight.  Both Shepard and Bowers are big – both pushing against the upper limit of this weight class. They may have moved past that top duo.  Shepard has only lost once and Bowers just won at Canal Fulton.   Treisch is equally big and he beat Shepard last year--though that model has been replaced by a new, energetic Shepard.  Add in a few heavyweights with one great move and it will be a excellent competition. 

Davia should have few problems at Coshocton.  Two of the best heavyweights there (Donavan and Bruney) are about half his size (or so it seems), and most of the others cannot match his strength.  If Stuff remains focused, he could be a finalist against Davia at this district.

State qualifier Ivins made it down to 275 pounds, and with his size and experience, he’ll be dangerous.  Davia pinned him last year and Ewing finessed him in overtime.  I think the heavyweight to watch at Xenia is Baird.  Kind of a mid-sized model, he pinned Dzigiel at states and has built on last year’s fine results to fashion a solid senior season.  Jones and Wysong are other possibilities, but I don’t see a deep pool of talent here. 

At Owens, many of the top contenders have met many times.  Scifers is the only returning state qualifier, but that is no surety at this district.  Actually, Borer might be the top performer in the Northwest with Scifers, Ruhlen, and Taylor close behind.   However, the two that have the most upside are Ruffer and Howell.  The former, only a sophomore, is moving up fast on the learning curve and if he can eliminate mistakes, qualify easily for the state meet.  Howell will look great in one round and then fairly awful the next. Give him a consistent weekend and there’s no telling what he might accomplish.

TEAMS

1.     Sandusky St. Mary         As I said in the essay at 171#, this team has the opportunity to post a new standard for team scoring in Division III.  The big four of Shearer, Dye, Whelan, and Opfer should collect in the neighborhood of 90 to 100 points.  That means Baum, Gliatta, Howell, Hermes, and Cam Whelan have to provide about 50.  I’m not sure that’s possible.  This will be their 5^th title putting them into a tie for fifth place all-time.

2.     Chanel                              Another team looking for their 5^th team title, but it looks like it will be their 6^th runner-up trophy.  The incomparable Jaggers leads the way and the lightweights are excellent.  They’ll need a lot of help from folks like Dzigiel, Roppel and Wade to do much better.

3.     Delta                                 Pretty much a four man squad with Moss and Evans the established stars and Gombash a state qualifier.  The big surprise is Spangler who came back after a year of early retirement and has scintillated.

4.     Cuyahoga Hts.                 The first three weight classes are where they must score with Payne Lint and Scaletta as favorites.  Clay Lint could help some, but only Foote has the remotest chance of putting points on the board from the rest of the lineup. 

5.     Fairless                            A team that has moved down to Division III at precisely the right moment.  I think that Huss and Dibell can score big-time at their respective weight classes and that Bowers will be a surprise contributor at heavyweight.  That should be 50+ points and that can often get you in the top five.

6.     Miami East                       They have lots of possibilities and could go as high as 3^rd if everyone was at maximum efficiency.  The big guns are Knoop, Gambill, and Preece.  They need more scoring from the Longs, Kief, and Grant.

7.     Archbold                           The question is whether this is a team of state qualifiers or state scorers.  They have lots of opportunities with Starr, Rufenacht, Schultz, Stuckey and Gracia.  If Lecklider or Rupp can help that would be big as is getting Stuckey at exactly the right weight class.  The key element though, may be the big sophomore heavyweight Ruffer.

8.     Liberty Center                  I like their middleweights Hill and Huff and its time for Van Sickle to score big. State alternate Slurberry needs to contribute

9.     Mohawk                            Not much happens till 160#, but then Studer, Sowers, and Haubert could score big-time points.  Reamer and the younger Studer are long shots to help, but the freshman Sowers might surprise everyone.

10.      Martins Ferry                    This might be a stretch especially since Roth has moved to Pennsylvania.  Right now only Tucker and Yoder look like state scorers and they’re both at difficult weight classes.   I’m not sure anyone else can step up so they could fall out of the picture early.

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