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Johnson, Griffin, Vande Vrede earn medals

The Manawa wrestling team traveled to Appleton West Saturday, Dec. 15 to compete in the Battle on the Fox.

The young Wolves gained valuable mat experience with each wrestler getting five varsity matches under their belts.

Garret Griffin and Joe Vande Vrede each went 4-1 on the day. Griffin finished fifth and Vande Vrede third in their weight classes. Casey Johnson was undefeated during the tournament, earning him his first championship of the season.

Head coach Scott Hahn said about Johnson’s day, “Casey used a variety of moves and technique today. He is getting himself ready for our upcoming schedule and used some time today to improve on technique. He was mentally ready today and knew where he wanted to finish.”

Menominee Indian 51, Manawa 31

The Manawa wrestling squad showed its youthfulness for the first time this season, falling to Menominee Indian on Thursday, Dec. 13, 51-31. The Eagles were aggressive all night and took advantage of some mistakes to drown the Wolves in front of their home crowd.

The dual started at 106 with a double forfeit. The Eagles won six straight matches and led 39-0. Griffin got Manawa on the board with a pin. Nick Johnson followed with his first career varsity win, with a fall in the third period.

“Nick worked hard this match. He is picking moves up and used his leverage well tonight. Congratulations to him on his first career victory,” Hahn said.

Vande Vrede and Casey Johnson also picked up wins for the Wolves.

The Wolves will head to Madison to wrestle in the prestigious Badger State Wrestling Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 22. Manawa will be one of nineteen teams competing in the event.

“We are hoping to bring back some hardware from Madison. This tournament will tell us where we are at this point of the season. There will be some great competition there,” said Coach Dan Kundinger.

Following Christmas break, the Wolves host the Manawa Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 5.

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