By Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
On January 9th, Hayden and Holden Smith dominated their weight classes at 120 and 126, respectively, at the WVC Regional qualifier in Merrill for the Junior Varsity (JV) State Challenge Series.
JV State will be held on January 23rd at Wausau West High School from JV qualifiers throughout the eight regions in the state. The top three place winners qualified for their shot at taking home the gold.
“Hayden Smith, a freshman at Merrill High School, is wrestling at 120 pounds and coming off a broken foot and looked like he hasn’t missed a day of practice!” MHS assistant coach Carey Mullenberg said. “Hayden shook off the cast and wrestled his way to first place at the WVCS Regional meet. By doing so, Hayden earned his ticket and a first round bye at the JV State meet.
“Not to be outdone by his brother, Holden Smith – also a freshman at Merrill High School – dominated his 126-pound weight bracket to take first place, which earned him a first-round bye at the state meet as well. He showed great skill heading to JV State. Holden and Hayden will be put to the test when they attempt to go for the gold!”