State wrestling tourney: day one

By Andy Krutsinger, Mt. Pleasant News

DES MOINES ? All four state-qualifying wrestlers from the area were in action during Day One of the state wrestling tournament on Thursday, and all four picked up at least one win.

Columbus/Winfield-Mt. Union duo Jarod Kadel (106 lbs.) and Tucker Morrison (170 lbs.) had the best days of the four, each picking up wins in Class 2A.

Kadel breezed through his match for an 8-1 decision win over Jacob Mielke of Pocahontas Area, advancing him to today?s quarterfinals against Johnny Hua of MOC-Floyd Valley, who pinned his man in the first round.

Morrison battled for a 3-1 decision win over Devon Van Houten of Saydel. He will be squaring off in the quarters against Lincoln Coakley from Estherville-Lincoln Central, who picked up a win in the first round to punch his ticket to the next round.

In Class 1A, New London?s Reno Chiri (145 lbs.) and WACO?s Cody Crawford had similar results; one loss and one win.

Chiri lost by pinfall, in 2:38, to Trent Johnson of Dike-New Hartford, but he was able to pin Ben Jacobs of Newman Catholic in 1:07 to advance on in the wrestlebacks.

Crawford was pinned by Jesup?s Brian Sadler, in 2:18, to get pushed to the wrestlebacks as well. He picked up a quick win in his first wrestleback, pinning Dan Jensen of Panorama in 23 seconds.

Both Chiri and Crawford are still waiting for other results to find out who they face in the next round.

All four wrestlers will be back in action today. Kadel and Morrison are still alive for a state title. Chiri and Crawford could still get as high as third place.

The News will have full results from the four matmen in Monday?s edition.