Bridgeport’s wrestling team remained unbeaten on the year despite only getting to compete in one day of this past weekend’s West Virginia Army National Guard Duals Tournament. Initially, the Summersville event was to be held on two days, but the cancellation of school led to BHS only being allowed to compete on Saturday.

 

As it turned out, the one day was pretty good to the Indians. Bridgeport swept their opposition to move to a perfect 13-0 on the year.

 

“We wrestled other teams who entered the competition on Saturday. I was very happy with their overall effort and performance,” said Indians Coach Chris Courtney. “Especially since we had limited practices due to school cancellations.”

 

Bridgeport pitched a shutout in its pool Saturday. The Indians got past Williamstown (4-1), Liberty (2-3), Pikeview (2-3), Tazewell out of Virginia (0-5) and Lewis County (2-3) to stay unbeaten on the year.

 

Several wrestlers had big days for the Indians, including two Indians going 5-0. Aidan Gibson at 126 and Kavaugh Summers at 220 both finished Saturday unbeaten. The Tribe had several wrestlers competing that ended the day 4-1 including Kemo Summers (132), Josh Wojciechowicz (145), Austin Gibson (152) and Benson Bassell (170). Nathan Popichak also went 4-1 (132) in junior varsity competition.

 

Several other wrestlers also competed and picked up wins. Addison Courtney (138) and JT Muller (160) both went 3-2, while Carson DeMotto (182) finished 2-3 and John Bush (195) ended the day at 1-4.

 

Despite the solid start with a less than full roster able to compete, Courtney isn’t exactly sure where his team stands. He’s hoping to find out more as the season is at the midway point.

 

“I still feel it is too early to tell,” Courtney said when asked about how solid he thought his team was. “We are young and have a lot to learn. I don't feel any of them have reached their season’s full potential. I hope they continue to improve each week and peak at regionals and states.”

 

The team will get a huge test this weekend at the Winner’s Choice Meet in Fairmont. The Indians will compete against a field loaded with Class AAA squads and set up much like the state tournament will be ran later this year in Huntington.

 

“It’s a big test to see where we are at in the state,” said Courtney.

 

Last year, only one BHS wrestler placed. Addison Courtney earned that distinction by placing in the 138 pound classification.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo is of Aidan Gibson, while Kavaugh Summers is shown in the second picture - both went 5-0. Benson Bassell, 4-1, is shown at the bottom. Photos by Gracie Courtney.