Coming off a disappointing first day at the Class 2A state wrestling tournament, the Dolores High School wrestling team got back to business on Feb. 20 and notched two wins.
Brandon Ward scores win
Among the Bears victors was 106-pound sophomore Brandon Ward (29-13), who rebounded from a first round loss and pinned Rye High School's Colton Sims (12-22) in the opening round of consolations.
"I Peterson rolled him and stuck him," Ward said. "I'm just thinking about the next round. My goal is to get third place."
Ward will next face off against Centauri High School's Kord Howsman (26-8) on the evening of Feb. 20 at approximately 5:45 p.m.
Wallace moves on
Also coming away with a victory for the Bears was 145-pound senior Guy Wallace (34-15), who pinned McClave High School's Dayton Garcia (9-19) 44 seconds into the second period.
Wallace appeared patient and in control from start to finish and shortly after the match, he said that focus is on continuing to move on.
"I've got to win the next one, that's all," said the senior. "Wrestling is all about technique, so I have to keep my technique strong."
Wallace will next wrestle against Norwood/Nucla High School's Trenton Armintrout (27-7). The match will take place on the evening of Feb. 20 sometime after 5:45 p.m.
Hackney bows out of tournament
Rounding out the Bears consolation bracket competitors was 113-pound freshman Austin Hackney (12-18), who lost an 11-3 decision to Burlington High School's Logan Duram (30-9).
Hackney fought hard throughout the match scored a takedown late in the third period, but was ultimately overwhelmed by Duram's constant pressure.
Even so, the Dolores freshman who unexpectedly qualified for the state tournament relished the opportunity to compete in the Pepsi Center and vowed to return next year.
"(The state tournament) was fun and it gives me a lot more experience," said Hackney. "I'm going to practice football over the summer and go to wrestling camp. I'll come back even better next year."