Bellefontaine’s depth was the different Thursday as the host Chieftains slipped past Urbana 42-33 in the battle of Route 68 dual wrestling meet.
This is the fourth straight year BHS has defeated the Hillclimbers to keep the traveling trophy on senior night. There were only four matches wrestled, with Urbana winning all four.
“It was a special night to honor our seniors,” said BHS head coach Brady Hiatt. “It is always hard to see seniors bring their Chieftain careers to an end, but we’re excited to finish out the season with them and see what the future has in store.”
The Chieftains were able to pick up forfeits in the other 10 weight classes. That included Chelsea Horsley (106), Tucker Newland (132), Noah Yoesting (145), Blayden Hurley (152), Garrett Gross (195), Josh Laysone (220) and Josh Steiner (285).
Bellefontaine also celebrated the program’s 60th anniversary prior to the dual. Four members of the original team were present and were given commemorative jackets. Those in attendance were Mike Whaley, Jack Makemson, Charles Earick and Billie Munz, who represented the late Butch Munz.
“It was a great night to recognize and honor the founding members of the Chieftain Wrestling Program,” said Hiatt. “A huge thanks to Charles Earick, Jack Makemson, Mike Whaley, and Billie (Butch) Munz for coming tonight. It was an honor to meet them and to have them here.”
The Chieftains return to the mat Saturday, Feb. 15, for the Canal Winchester Invitational.