Eleven teams from three different states invaded Max Morris Gymnasium Saturday as FCHS head wrestling coach Rick Arrington's squad played host to the 2010 Redbird Invitational.
The Redbirds logged a fourth-place finish as a team, spearheaded by second-place finishes from seniors Zach Frazier, Keelen Garza and Benny Dorris at the 119 lbs., 125 lbs. and 145 lbs. weight classes, respectively. Union County, Ky. won the event, followed by the runner-up from Mt. Vernon, Ind.
Arrington said he was satisfied in the Redbirds' effort, adding that the fourth-place finish was about what he expected from his team.
"With the level of competition that we saw today, I'd say we finished exactly where I thought we would as a team," said Arrington.
"Individually, we had our ups and downs with some kids placing better than they had in any other tournament and others having a tougher day than expected."
Frazier just missed out on a first-place medal, winning a thrilling semifinal match in overtime before bowing out in heartbreaking fashion in the championship round at 119 lbs.
Garza dominated his first two opponents on his way to the championship match at 125 lbs., but lost a close match to a talented Indiana grappler for the second-place finish.
Arrington related that Dorris may be peaking at the right time, as he capped an impressive performance on the day with the 'Birds third second-place effort.
Freshman Brady Karnes and junior Dustin Moss turned in fourth-place finishes at the 215 lbs. and heavyweight classes, respectively.
"Earning a fourth-place medal is not too bad for Brady, our big freshman," said Arrington."Also, Moss seems to be catching on and figuring out what it takes to be a good heavyweight."
Junior Caleb Gardner also also placed fourth at the 140 lbs. weight class, claiming his first varsity two wins and two losses on the day.
