Pirate Wrestlers begin a long week

The Pirate wrestling team entered a long week having three duels and one upcoming tournament. Jan. 25, the Pirates hosted a conference match against the Lee’s Summit West Titans. Two days later, the team traveled to Winnetonka to face off against Winnetonka and Staley.

 

The week didn’t start off well for the Pirates ofter a disappointing loss against the Titans. On top of facing a well lined-up team, the Pirates were forced three opens in their line-up. The Titans already had an 18 point lead before the duel even started. The Pirates tried to make up for the losses but it wasn’t easy, some were able to deliver and some unable. Seniors Glen Whitney and Tanner Jones, juniors Josh Knight, Le’Roy Barnes and Tanner Jones all come out with victories. Even with valiant efforts, the team came up short with the final team scores of 22-50.

 

The team was only given one day to rest until they were on a bus and on their way to Winnetonka High School. The Pirates first face off against the hosting team, Winnetonka. The Pirates come out strong and did what they needed to do to with their match. The Pirates still had three openings in their line up in the 125, 135 and 140 weight classes. As a team, the Pirates were successful and came out with a needed victory. Wrestlers Josh Knight, Le’Roy Barnes, Bryce Beilman, Tanner Jones, Glen Whitney, Darion Rodgers and Kevin Estell all came out with victories leading up to the final score of 44-21.

 

Right after their first duel, the Pirates immediately faced off against Staley. Staley is one of the top teams in Belton’s district. The outcomes of the matches would reflect seeding in the district tournament, but the wrestlers were more focused at the match at hand. The Pirates gave it all they could, still with three opens in their line up, but were unable to put down their tough opponents. Glen Whitney, Darion Rodgers and Kevin Estell pulled through for victories for the Pirates. The team still came up short losing 21-48.

 

The week is still not over for the Pirates. The team will get a one day break before they contend in the Liberty Tournament. The tournament will last two days and hosts teams from all over.