Murfreesboro, TN – On an electrifying night, the Blackman Lady Blaze wrestling team made their way across town to face off against their fierce rivals, the Riverdale Warriors, in the TSSAA Region 3 Dual Championship. The arena was buzzing with anticipation, as both teams were known for their tenacity on the mat.
Despite not having a full lineup and facing the challenge of several forfeits, the Lady Blaze showed their mettle, clinching a thrilling victory with a final score of 39-30. This victory marks the second region title for Head Coach Andi Jones, whose team won the individual regions last season. This win comes on the heels of Blackman edging out Riverdale in their regular season dual last week, setting the stage for tonight’s championship showdown.
The night was filled with dramatic moments, starting with Joy Younan of Blackman securing a quick fall over Natalie Rizo from Riverdale at the 100-pound weight class. The momentum continued with Kylynn McLean, Marian Saleb, and Shai Ring each delivering swift victories by fall, showcasing the skill and determination of the Blaze wrestlers.
Blackman had to make do without senior leader Bailynn Lowe, who was held out due to a minor medical issue. Despite this setback, the team’s depth and resilience shone through.
Kinzley Johnson added to the tally with a hard-fought decision win against Payton King at 138 pounds, while Ali Bryant rounded out the contested matches with a fall at 145 pounds. Jonna Patterson brought the heat at 185 pounds, finishing her match with an impressive fall, sealing the deal for Blackman’s victory.
Despite the forfeits which granted Riverdale some points, the Warriors were unable to win any of the matches that were contested, highlighting the superior performance of the Blaze on this night.
Coach Andi Jones expressed her pride post-match, saying, “I’m so incredibly proud of all of our girls tonight. It takes every single practice partner and coach to make things like this happen.”
She also highlighted the invaluable support from her great assistant coaches, acknowledging their significant role in the team’s success. “We have a great group of coaches that show up every day for our athletes. Without them, this couldn’t happen. It truly takes a village.”
This win not only cements the Lady Blaze’s spot at the TSSAA Girls State Duals but also sends a strong message to all competitors – the Lady Blaze wrestling team is here to stay!.
Individual Match Results:
- 100 lbs: Joy Younan (BHS) over Natalie Rizo (RHS) (Fall 4:20)
- 107 lbs: Reagan Patrum (RHS) over (BHS) (For.)
- 114 lbs: Johanna Pantojas (RHS) over (BHS) (For.)
- 120 lbs: Kylynn McLean (BHS) over Aliana Sayvone (RHS) (Fall 1:00)
- 126 lbs: Marian Saleb (BHS) over Riley Thomas (RHS) (Fall 1:11)
- 132 lbs: Shai Ring (BHS) over Langley Hunter (RHS) (Fall 0:24)
- 138 lbs: Kinzley Johnson (BHS) over Payton King (RHS) (Dec 5-3)
- 145 lbs: Ali Bryant (BHS) over Summer Flores (RHS) (Fall 3:05)
- 152 lbs: Josephine Fisher (RHS) over (BHS) (For.)
- 165 lbs: Zoe Clark (RHS) over (BHS) (For.)
- 185 lbs: Jonna Patterson (BHS) over Danika Mealer (RHS) (Fall 5:11)
- 235 lbs: Saphirin Tasai (RHS) over (BHS) (For.)
Congratulations to the Lady Blaze on an outstanding performance and best of luck at the state duals!
Go Blaze!!