Senior members of the Oxford varsity wrestling had tasted the atmosphere of the appearing in the state semifinals before, and prior to the season’s start they made it their goal to go back.
On Saturday, they accomplished their goal, but they fell short of a state championship when they lost in the final match 35-20 against Lowell.
The Wildcats were able to take a early 11-6 lead thanks to 125-lb Matt Frish’s pin and 112-lb Calvin Cavanaugh technical fall. But the nerves began to show, and Lowell won the next eight matches to take a commanding 35-11 lead.
‘We’re disappointed by not winning the match, but I’m not disappointed in the guys? said Oxford Head Coach Scott Couch. ‘I’m proud of all the guys.?
The loss ended what could be regarded as one of the best seasons in school history for Oxford Wrestling: 37-3 record, winning the Flint Metro League Regular season and Tournament Crown, winning districts and regionals and advancing to the state final.
‘The seniors had a great run, but it fell short? said Coach Couch. ‘Our goal next year is to get back to the finals and win it.
The road to the finals will not be easy as the Wildcats lose six senior leaders out of the starting lineup, but Coach Couch is confident that the guys who have been patiently waiting their turn can step in and perform and propel next years team back to the state finals.
The Wildcats fought tooth and nail in the semifinal match against Stevenson-Lakeshore, coming from behind in the final individual match in dramatic fashion to win 31-29.
The Lancers were able to take a 19-10 lead, but the Wildcats kept chipping away, eventually taking a 23-19 lead on Heavyweight Dylan Smith’s pin. The Lancers went ahead 26-23 and 29-26 before Frisch declared victory for the Wildcats with his technical fall in the last match.
The Wildcats rolled through the quarterfinals match against Byron Center by a score of 45-12. They won 10 of the 14 matches, and only lost two matches by a combined score of two.