Canfield sends eight wrestlers to districts

Canfield wrestlers Robby Reed (125 pounds) and Alex Benedict (130) did exactly what they were expected to do — win sectional championships.

The seniors were two of eight Cardinal wrestlers to place in the top four of their respective weight classes at last weekend’s Division II sectional tournament at West Branch. All eight advance to compete in this weekend’s district tourney at Akron Firestone, with an opportunity to qualify for the state tournament.

“Robby and Alex are both wrestling very well right now, and we think they will finish the year strong,” said Canfield coach Dean Conley. “We feel good about sending eight to districts. We need to wrestle well at Firestone to send some kids to Columbus.”

Canfield (167) finished fourth in the team standings. Crestwood (256) won the district team title, followed by West Branch (213) and Marlington (172).

Reed (37-2), the No. 1 seed at 125 pounds, won the sectional title with a 6-2 finals victory over Crestwood’s Dylan Kager. Benedict (29-3) took the gold at 130 pounds, defeating Crestwood’s Nick Fejedelem 13-4 in the championship bout.

Also advancing to districts for the Cards are Korey Frost (fourth, 112), Zach Kay (third, 119), Richard Rapone (third, 135), John Poullas (fourth, 145), Eric Mirto (fourth, 160) and Mike Flanagan (fourth, 189).

Anthony Spencer finished fifth at 103 pounds and will be a district alternate.

The district tournament wraps up today with the top four in each weight classes advancing to next week’s state tournament Thursday through Saturday at Ohio State University.