The bright lights and swarm of spectators didn’t seem to phase David Rice, as he made his debut on the largest of stages last week.
The Wright City freshman walked away from his first-ever …
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The bright lights and swarm of spectators didn’t seem to phase David Rice, as he made his debut on the largest of stages last week.
The Wright City freshman walked away from his first-ever showing at the MSHSAA Wrestling Championships having claimed a pair of victories and just falling short of the medal stand.
He achieved the milestone of being the first male competitor in the history of the program to win a match at state.
Rice went 2-2 against his 120-pound counterparts, gaining a wealth of experience on top of his already decade or so of competitive grappling.
“He had a pretty good weekend,” said Coach Billy Garrett. “He did a really good job for his first time at state. Going up against older kids, the big stage didn’t really get to him. He wrestled like he had all season long.”
Rice began last Thursday with a 14-10 decision over freshman Chance Phillips of Savannah.
“He got a big lead and wrestled smart to stay ahead and not let the other guy come back and get a pin on him,” said Garrett.
Rice advanced to the quarterfinal match on Friday, where he lost by fall to Seneca senior Kendon Pollard in 57 seconds.
“He went up against a really tough kid, who was the defending third-place finisher,” said Garrett.
Falling into the wrestle back rounds, Rice was able to claim another victory against Akhilleus Arguelles winning by an 18-9 major decision.
Rice’s final match was a 2-1 defeat to Coleman Oxford of Cameron.
“It was a really close match, and he was right in it until the very end,” said Garrett. “He just couldn’t find a way to score.”
Rice was the Wildcats’ only representative at state this year, after Wright City advanced four to the MSHSAA Championships last winter.
“Next year we hope he ends up back here with a few more wins,” said Garrett. “There were five seniors in his weight class, and at least four of those who placed will be graduating.”
Garrett says the program gained steam during its second year, despite the limited showing in the finals.
“We’re continuing to grow and gain experience,” said Garrett. “We have a good chance of getting several guys to state next year.”
In particular, a few competitors whose season was hindered by setbacks have an opportunity to bounce back with a trip to state in the coming season.
“Daniel McGowan, at 138 pounds, had some injuries this year,” said Garrett. “He has the potential to make it there. Deshon Johnson, at heavyweight, if he can keep his knee healthy, he can be pretty strong and qualify for state again.”
Wright City saw its number of participants increase considerably this year, as the program generates interest among the other new sports being offered at the school.
