“Some guys are ready to get it started,” Aviators’ coach Mark Peck said, “and some guys are ready to be done. It’s hard to predict.”
Three guys still going strong are seniors Logan Hoskins, Jestin Love and Matt Verdes. The trio have surpassed Jesse Myers’ 138 career record for wins that has lasted since 2010. Logan Hoskins (157-24) currently holds the mark and is followed by Love (154-32) and Verdes (147-36).
»RELATED: Thursday’s high school roundup
“A lot of these freshmen are coming in as high-level kids. They can rack up 100 wins pretty quick. It’s still a heck of an accomplishment,” Peck said.
“They’re all chasing each other. Honestly, I don’t think it’s a big deal for them because their goals are higher than that. It’s probably unique having three kids in the same class with that many wins.”
The trio lead six Aviators into the Division I district tournament at Fairmont’s Trent Arena on Friday and Saturday. The top four finishers in each weight class advance to next week’s state championships.
Hoskins (38-1 in the 132-pound weight class), Love (36-5 at 152) and Verdes (37-5 at 126) all cracked the varsity starting lineup their freshmen year. They’ve piled up the wins ever since. Hoskins is a four-time sectional champion and three-time state qualifier. Love is a three-time sectional champ and state qualifier. Verdes is a two-time sectional champ and served as a state alternate last season.
“They want to be on the podium at the state tournament for sure. They’ve worked hard for it and they what it takes,” Peck said. “We’re excited for them to have the opportunity. We’ve got a lot of work to do before that.”
Butler has also seen strong performances this season from fellow qualifiers freshman Parker Lee (21-14 at 106), junior Matt Motter (25-10 at 138) and senior Deaglen Pyle (31-10 at 160).
“It’s been a fun year because it’s been a good mix of kids. .. They’re all different levels and they’re all hanging in there. They’re very supportive of each other, which is good. They help each other out and look out for each other, which is the way it should be.”
Also at Fairmont, Springboro qualified 13 to the tournament which is second only to Elder’s 14. Beavercreek (9), Lebanon (8), Fairmont (7) and Centerville (6) also send large contingents.
In D-II at Wilmington, Eaton and Valley View both sends seven wrestlers. Milton-Union (6), Oakwood (6), Bellbrook (5), Chaminade Julienne (5) and Greenville (5) are among area teams competing.
In D-III at Troy’s Hobart Arena, Versailles (10), Brookville (9), Troy Christian (9), Covington (8), Legacy Christian (7) and Miami East (7) are among the team contenders.
About the Author