Bathke takes Championship at Mount Horeb; Jenson and Ball take second and third in their weight classes

TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR

On Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, the Merrill Bluejay Wrestling Team traveled to the 2021 Mount Horeb Varsity Invitational where they competed against 14 teams.

“Even though the Merrill Wrestling Team was short handed and had some wrestlers competing in their first Varsity matches, many competed well, and three were able to make the podium,” Head Merrill Varsity Coach Brian Suchocki said.

“Wyatt Bathke (195, 8-4; 26.0 team points) led the way with five pins and the Championship,” he said. “Wyatt had a great day of wrestling. He showed what he is capable of, and I felt this was the most diverse wrestling he has done. Wyatt didn’t rely on one move or technique.”

Joey Jenson of the Merrill Bluejays took second place in his weight class. Submitted photo.

“Joey Jenson (106, 5-1; 20.0 team points) is getting his footing on Varsity,” Suchocki said. “Joey wrapped up four pins before falling in the Championship. It is great to see Joey gain experience and confidence as the season progresses.”

He continued: “Brian Ball (170, 6-5; 17.5 team points) took third place. Brian finished the day with a dominant performance for third place. Each time Brian competes, he gets better. We are looking forward to seeing him continue this upward trend.”

“Other place finishers were Jon Hart (120, 5-6; 9.0 team points) sixth place, Brady Norton (132, 3-3; 9.0 team points) seventh place, and Callum Wheeler (145, 3-2; 9.0 team points) seventh place,” Suchocki said. “Jon, Brady, and Callum did a great job competing. These three young wrestlers are doing a nice job competing.”

Other Merrill Varsity finishers: Austin Depies (160, 0-2); Mikal Plautz (220, 0-2); and Kieran Hehling (285, 4-6; 4.0 team points).

On Dec. 18, Merrill’s Brian Ball took home a third place from Mount Horeb. Submitted photo.