Blaze Wrestling Team Competes at Cleveland Duals

The Blackman Blaze wrestling team traveled to Cleveland, Tennessee, to compete in the highly anticipated Cleveland Duals. This prestigious event featured 16 teams from three states, including Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia, creating a highly competitive atmosphere for all participants. Cleveland won in the finals with a 50-21 win over Woodland-Cartersville.

The Blaze displayed skills and determination throughout the tournament, delivering impressive performances against some of the very best teams in the region.

Despite high hopes, the team’s overall finish was not as strong as hoped, leaving coaches and fans both proud and slightly disappointed. Individually, The Blaze wrestlers showed flashes of brilliance and significant improvement, but as a team, the challenging competition proved to be a formidable test for the young squad, especially considering they were without two key starters.

Several Blackman wrestlers had winning records throughout the tournament:

  • Andrew Workman (120 lbs): 4 wins, 1 loss
  • Isaac Ortiz (126 lbs): 4 wins, 1 loss
  • Isaiah Thephavong (138 lbs): 3 wins, 1 loss
  • Eli Goodin (150 lbs): 3 wins, 2 losses
  • Afraim Ewida (165 lbs): 3 wins, 2 losses

Lots of bright spots here!! Congratulations to all the wrestlers and coaches on their performances!

Coach Heathcott’s Perspective:

Coach Heathcott reflected on the team’s performance with a mix of pride and optimism, stating: “We saw continued improvement from our guys Saturday. They are taking it from the practice room to the mat and are buying into the process. And the results are starting to show it. Our 24/25 team is young with a lot of first-timers in the lineup. Every day is an opportunity to get better, and they are embracing that process. Their fight and willingness to compete is jumping levels. All of us coaches are excited about where we are and where we are headed with this group! Back to work.”

The Blackman Blaze wrestling team remains focused on improvement and development as they continue their season. With a young lineup and a commitment to hard work, the future looks promising for this determined group of athletes.

Final Match Scores:

  • Social Circle defeated Blackman 69-7
  • Blackman defeated Cleveland JV 53-24
  • Hewitt-Trussville High School defeated Blackman 43-34
  • Blackman defeated Farragut High School 58-22
  • Bradley Central defeated Blackman 62-18

Stay tuned for more updates on the Blackman Blaze wrestling team! #BlazePride #Wrestling