The McIntosh Chiefs wrestling team launched their season at the Troup County High School Duals in LaGrange the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. The Chiefs finished the day with two wins and three losses. McIntosh handily won against Kendrick and Northgate while suffering losses against state wrestling powers LaFayette, Kell and Columbus.

At the end of the day Coach Nick Bellantoni commented that he was glad to see the team on the mat.

“I was anxious to get a sense of where we stand and to have the wrestlers compete against quality competition early so we can identify our weaknesses. Today we saw state championship caliber wrestling and that will make us a better team.”

Matt Lein at 112 lbs led the Chiefs with five wins (four by pin) and no losses on the day. Finishing the day with three wins and two losses were Jarrod Chamblee at 119, Carl Scheumann – 140, Erik Willanzheimer – 189 and Matt Carroll – 215.

Landis Ford had two wins and three losses while Jim Murrell went 1 -4. Sophomore Colin Brandt also wrestled at 152 and had one win and two losses with team captain Bryce Hughey wrestling at 171 lbs.

Coach Bellantoni took the opportunity to get some early season experience for a number of freshmen. Matt Tinker had a strong day at 103 lbs finishing with two wins and one loss while Trent Shallow also at 103 went 1- 2. Sean Carney went 1- 2 at 275 with Ryan Hudson getting in two matches as well. Risky Oskey competed at 135 lbs, Andrew Graham at 145 and Devon Pozek at 152.

“I expect our guys to use this tournament as motivation to step it up a notch in practice,” said Bellantoni. “Our message has always been that you practice with the same intensity you compete with in a match. Seeing these types of high-caliber teams this early in the season brings the importance of this message home.”
The Chiefs are back in action today and tomorrow at the always tough South Gwinnett Duals

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