Evening Sun Report

Wrestling

NORWICH – On the strength of six finalists and three champions, Norwich captured the Section IV Class B wrestling tournament at Norwich High School Saturday afternoon. It was the Tornado’s first Class B championship since the 1994-1995 season ending a 19-year span between class championships.

“Every kid contributed to our championship, and every kid was wrestling the best they have all year long,” said Norwich coach Terry Hagenbuch. “That’s important this time of year, and I am proud of all of the guys’ effort.”

As expected, returning Section IV champions Tristan Rifanburg (138) and Frank Garcia (152) breezed to titles. Rifanburg had just two matches, and needed two minutes and 10 seconds of mat time to claim his crown.

Garcia, too, was dominant with two pins and a superior decision. Adding the third crown was first-time sectional champion Dalen Geislinger (99, who edged Chenango Valley’s Caleb Wiggins, 4-2, in the finals.

“Frankie and Tristan are leaders on our team, and they knew they needed to go out and get bonus points in their matches to help us win the team title,” Hagenbuch said. “And they did.”

Nailing down runner-up finishes were Zach Mills (106), Cole Rifanburg (120), and Brad Chesebro (220). Five other Norwich wrestlers grabbed top-four finishes giving Norwich 11 entries in the sectional tournament next week, its largest contingent in several years.

“Being at home this weekend was most definitely a big advantage for us,” Hagenbuch said. “Everything worked out perfect.”