The Panther wrestling team was in Roane County to participate in the Region IV wrestling tournament. Here is where all the work the wrestlers have done throughout the year pays dividends. Here is where it is determined who will go to the state tournament. In each region, only the top four wrestlers in each weight bracket will advance to the big dance in Huntington. The wrestlers who represent Clay do an outstanding job each year, and no matter what tournament you go to, are the ones to beat even when they are outnumbered. This year Clay will be sending five of those eight wrestlers to the state finals. Brandon White, a Senior at Clay, became Region IV champion and will no doubt be a top seed at the states. Brandon Stutler, also a Senior, placed second at the tournament after being defeated by the narrowest of margins in the final. Ryan Stewart, a Junior, also placed second at the tournament. Austin Dobbins, a Senior, placed third at the tournament and Blake Belcher, a Junior, placed 4th. For some of these wrestlers, it will be their final hoorah as they go on to greater things. If you get the opportunity, come out and support these boys. They work hard to be the best in their class and the state tournament may just prove that they are. Congratulations to the wrestlers who made it to the state competition. Bring home the gold!
