By Allen Hamrick
The Panther wrestling team started their 2019-2020 season on Wednesday and Saturday this past week. Due to the new speed season, only four teams are wrestling per match, so the wrestling will be fast and furious. The Panthers have a full team this year with some boys being able to wrestle exhibition matches but not score points if they win due to not having enough practices in. However, this week will be different as all the wrestlers will be able to contribute to the success of the team. They were at Fairmont East on Wednesday evening and up against Fairmont Senior right out of the chute. When the smoke cleared, Fairmont Senior came out on top by just four points with the final being 36-40. The Panthers came back and beat Fairmont East but lost to Lewis County in a tough matchup.
The wrestlers travelled to Parkersburg on Saturday, went up against Roane County and beat them, lost to Parkersburg by nine points and also lost to Wirt by 10 points. These losses are just by the narrow margin of only a couple of matches. Once all the wrestlers are able to get their points counted, these losses will turn to wins. The Panthers have filled more weight classes this year and have a better chance of getting the Panther wrestling dynasty back to a feared team. This Panther team could possibly send many wrestlers to the big dance at the state level as long as they stay healthy and keep the fire kindled to kick the butt of anybody who has the nerve to come up against them. With some boys, this is their first year wrestling, and they will learn as they go. Panther wrestling will be at Nicholas on Tuesday evening and at home on Saturday with wrestling starting at 11 AM. If you get a chance, come out and support the team. Go Panthers!
