Mount Vernon News

Colts host OCC

BELLVILLE — The Clear Fork High School wrestling team hosted the Ohio Cardinal Conference Championships on Saturday for the first time during its four-year stint in the league.

“I like this conference and I like all the coaches in it. I have known them for years,” said Clear Fork head coach Brian Faust. “No matter what venue you hold it in, it goes smoothly. Not because of the tournament directors, although they help, but because the coaches make it go smoothly. I think they are a great bunch of guys to work with.”

West Holmes captured the team title scoring 202.5 points in a close contest with rival Lexington finishing second with 190.5 points. Clear Fork finished eighth, right behind Ashland with 37 points.

“Last year we only placed three wrestlers at the OCC with a full roster and this year we placed four with nine kids so we honestly are making small steps, but they take time,” said Faust.

Heavyweight Dalon Britt pinned Zach Fraley of Lexington to win the third-place match. This was the fourth meeting between Britt and Fraley. Fraley leads the overall series, 3-1, with each of his wins by one point. In the rival’s first meeting, Fraley came out on top in triple overtime.

“It was his turn — it has been his turn for the last three turns I thought — but it just worked out for the best. I am really proud of him. He has been working real hard,” said Faust.

Three other Colts placed in the tournament. Justin Oswalt placed forth in the 119 weight class, Carl Crozier placed fourth in the 125 weight class, and in the 160 pound category, Cameron Coxe placed fourth.

“My teammates did good today. We have improved a lot over the season. Coach has been telling us to pick it up toward the end of the season because, when sectionals come around, that is what really counts to see how far you can go,” said Britt.

The Colts middle school wrestling team brought home a first-place OCC win over runner-up Lexington.