James River High School put three wrestlers on the top step of the podium last Saturday at the Region 2C wrestling tournament at Liberty High School. The Knights finished fourth out of 10 schools despite having just eight competitors and six of the eight advanced to this Saturday’s state tournament at the Salem Civic Center.
Glenvar High was the team champion as Three Rivers District teams took three of the top four spots. Chatham was second, followed by 3RD schools Patrick County and James River.
The Knights put three wrestlers in the region championship and all three walked away as champions. At 113 pounds, senior Xaiden Wynn earned his fourth consecutive Region 2C championship and now eyes his third consecutive state championship in Salem Saturday. If Xaiden wins his third state title he would be only the second person to attain such a feat in James River High School history.
At 132 pounds, senior Brayden Forbes earned his third consecutive Region 2C championship. Brayden is already a three-time Class 2 state placer and seeks his fourth state placement to close out his career.
At 144 pounds, junior Nate Stewart earned his third consecutive Region 2C title. Nate finished second in the state tournament his freshman and sophomore years and eyes another chance at a state title.
Photos courtesy James River wrestling
Silas Whitson earned his first trip to the state tournament by placing third at 106. At 138, Josiah Merchant earned a third place finish, qualifying him for the state tournament for the second time after missing his sophomore season due to an injury. Finally, at 190, CJ Mullins earned a third place finish to qualify for the state tournament for the first time. Mullins is only in his second season as a wrestler with one year to go.
The VHSL Class 1, 2 and 3 state tournaments will all be held Saturday instead of the usual two-day format. That was changed with a snowstorm anticipated in mid-week, causing travel problems throughout the state. Wrestling begins at 8 a.m. Saturday with medal rounds due to start at 7:15 p.m.
Also, James River female wrestler Janiya Falls will compete in the female state tournament on February 26 and 27 in Henrico after finishing third in the VHSL Female Regional Qualifier two weeks ago.
