The Washington Demon wrestling team (25-3 record) put the finishing touches on a successful regular season Thursday night at Washington High School. The Demons welcomed the Keokuk Chiefs, the Oskaloosa Indians, and the Williamsburg Raiders to town for the regular season finale.

Washington opened up the meet against the Williamsburg Raiders and each match was critical in the final outcome. Washington earned a pin, a major decision, five decisions and a forfeit to come away with a 31-30 victory over Williamsburg. The team lead exchanged hands seven times including five times in the final five matches. Sophomore Andrew Waite (113) secured the victory by defeating Williamsburg’s Cole Lehn 11-4 in the final dual match between schools.

The Demons finished the evening wrestling Oskaloosa, and had a competitive fight from the five win Indians. Washington scored three falls, two decisions and two forfeits in a 36-33 victory over Oskaloosa. The Indians got out to a 9-0 lead and the match was tied four seperate times before the Demons took control for good with Oskaloosa’s forfeit in weight class 113.

Washington wrestling coach Brent Van Weelden was on the sidelines fired up after the victories and says he was proud of how his team fought. “You are happy for the kids when they win because no one really knows what they go through unless you come in the room and watch it.” Van Weelden said, “You spend three, four, five months with these guys in the winter and then a couple days in the summer, you become close with them and it’s nice to see them succeed.”

The Demons have been successful this season, winning 25 duals and capturing their second straight Southeast Conference wrestling title.

Washington now heads into postseason competition next Saturday at the Sectional tournament at Mediapolis High School.