GH grapplers buck Broncos in season opener

Fri, Dec 4, 2009    to del.icio.us

Grand Haven's varsity wrestling squad came back from an early deficit to defeat Coopersville in the teams' first match of the season on Thursday, 45-29.

The Buccaneers lost at 103, forfeited at 112, then lost again at 119 and 125 to trail the Broncos, 17-6. Grand Haven stormed back with four consecutive wins as Jack Dempsey at 135 pounds, Colin Bertucci at 140, Charlie Cuddington at 145 and Dakota Smith at 152 each recorded victories.

Also winning for the Bucs were Josh Juchartz, Tyler Kaffenberger, Jerry Westerman and Dan Nevins.

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"I really thought Dan Nevins, his effort was great," coach James Richardson said. "As a team, our effort was really what I expected, but you could tell it was the first match, because technically, we did not look very sharp."

Richardson gave credit to senior Jared Spear, who wrestled his first career match at 103 pounds.

"He lost, 4-3, but his effort was incredible," Richardson said. "He's a senior and this is the first match he's ever wrestled in his life. It was great."

The Buccaneers travel to Lansing on Saturday to take part in the Lansing Eastern Invitational. Several state-ranked teams will be in attendance, including Temperance Bedford, Eaton Rapids and St. John's.