SM's Scott twins qualify for state wrestling tournament

Smoky Mountain's wrestling Scott twins are headed to the State 3-A Tournament in Winston-Salem after finishing second in the Western Regionals held Friday and Saturday at St. Stephens High in Hickory.

The state meet is set for this coming Friday and Saturday at Joel Coliseum.

The Mustangs finished seventh in the 24-team field at the regionals.

"Overall, the entire team rose to the occasion, and I was very proud of their effort," Coach Tom Sargent said. "It's a tough regional, and you earn everything you get. Mike and Jake showed what winners they truly are with outstanding performances."

Mike had to get past an old nemesis to reach the finals at 119 pounds. He had lost twice this year to Enka's Andrew Roberts.

"This time Mike wrestled a smart, aggressive match which resulted in a satisfying victory," Sargent said. "It says a lot about Mike's character and commitment. He simply made up his mind that he was not going to lose again to Roberts."

The coach said Jake Scott "wrestled smart and tough the whole tournament" at 125 . He took on three-time state champion Drew Forshay, who has a career record of 210-2, in the finals.

"Jake wrestled his heart out in an exciting 16-9 loss," Sargent said. "We were all proud of Jake's effort. He never backed off, and he was attacking even at the very end."

Sargent said Nick Woodard performed well at 103 as he opened with two wins and finished fifth. "Nick has a bright wrestling future and has matured a great deal this year," the coach said. "He will be one of our leaders next year, and we expect a great deal from him."

Sargent said Michael Cox, wrestling at 112, tried to battle through an elbow injury sustained a few days earlier in practice but lost a close match in the opener.

At 130, Johnny Toledo dropped a 1-0 decision in a match to qualify for the state tournament. "Johnny had a great season and ended up 29-7 on the year," Sargent said. "Johnny is another leader we will be counting on next year."

Also winning matches for the Mustangs were Brendan Ferguson at 145 and Brandon Woodard at 160.

"Brandon Woodard pinned his first two opponents and ended an outstanding senior season 36-6 with 30 pins," the coach said. "We are very proud of his leadership and great attitude all year."

Back to Sports: 02/20/03.