The 2016 Bob Stover Classic was held this past Saturday, and it was quite a rumble. Thirteen teams from all over the state came to compete, and some of the finest wrestlers in the state were featured. With a six member team, the CCHS Panthers gave it all they had, placing two on the podium as champions. Brandon White at 195 pounds and Brandon Stutler at the 285 pound bracket both wrestled their way to the finals, and it didn’t take long for them to secure the number one spot . As a team, the Panthers placed fourth with 102 points behind Buckhannon Upshur who took third with 132 points, Braxton taking the number two spot with 149 points, and it was George Washington taking the number one spot with 216 points. It was some fine wrestling displayed by the Panthers; they knew they had to win by pins because of the shortage of wrestlers – it was the only way. Wrestling can be said to be neither pain nor pleasure but serious business that is to be entered into with courage and in a spirit of self sacrifice. Your CCHS Panthers did just that – they came in, took care of business and did a good job placing fourth. The Panthers only have two tournaments before the State Championship. The next challenge will be the LKC Tournament at St Mary’s High School this weekend followed by regional competition at Roane County. So, if you get the chance, come out and support the team in their bid for a championship. Thanks to coaching great Bob Stover and his First Lady of Wrestling Rosella Stover for gracing the arena with their presence. Also, a big pat on the back goes out to those who supplied the hospitality banquet for the event. It was indeed some of the best cooking around.
