Canfield wrestlers host Holiday Duals today
By LUCAS DAPRILE
The Canfield wrestling team will welcome a 10-team field, including 11-time defending state champion St. Paris Graham, to its gymnasium today for the annual Holiday Duals tournament.
The event begins at 10 a.m. with pool matches and features teams from Hubbard, Ravenna Southeast, Revere, Conneaut, Akron Manchester, Rootstown and Tallmadge. Placement matches will start at 5:30 p.m.
“The growth of the Holiday Duals is probably seen in the strength and diversity of the teams involved,” said Canfield athletic director Greg Cooper. “It’s a balanced mix of local and visiting teams – some smaller schools and others larger schools – but all with a tradition of having solid programs.”
Despite losing eight seniors from last year’s squad, including state runners-up Robby Reed and Alex Benedict, the Cardinals look forward to the challenge of winning their on event,
The top team challengers will be Graham and perenniel power Southeast, whom Canfield has faced in the Holiday Duals finals several times.
Canfield will be led by the team’s only senior Zach Kay. With only three freshmen are on the team, the lineup is stacked with many juniors and sophomores.
“These young guys aren’t afraid to compete,” explained assistant coach Derrick Fletcher.
Looking to continue their strong start this season are Korey Frost, Stephen Daprile, Kay, John Poullas, Jake Dunbar, Anthony Spencer, Stan Socha and Curtis Burns.