Members of the Washington wrestling team pose for a picture after winning the Al Garrison Duals in Waukee Saturday. Photo courtesy of the Washington Matbackers.
Another obstacle was cleared Saturday by the No. 5 Washington Demon wrestling team (15-0). The Demons put their unblemished dual record to the test at the Al Garrison Duals hosted by Waukee High School. The field featured five Class 3A programs, including Ankeny, Des Moines-Hoover, No. 9 Johnston, Waukee, and Waukee’s junior varsity squad. Washington left with their undefeated record intact and another dual team title.
Washington opened up in pool play matches. The Demons recorded five wins by fall, two technical falls, one major decision victory, and two wins by decision as they bested Ankeny, 50-16. Kyle Anderson (132; 3:00), Andrew Waite (138; 1:12), Tristin Westphal-Edwards (160; 0:26), Karlton Skubal (195; 1:13), and Mitchell Huisenga (285; 1:14) all won by pinfall. Washington scored six forfeits, five pinfalls, and one technical fall in a 71-3 victory over Des Moines Hoover. Matt Collett (106; 0:47), Anderson, (126: 4:59), Austin Hazelett (145 1:49), Trey Van Weelden (152; 1:23), and Colin Murphy (182; 1:28) pinned their opponents. The Demons closed pool play tallying 10 wins by fall, two forfeits, and one major decision in a 76-3 triumph over Waukee’s junior varsity. Walker Ikerd (113; 3:15), Garrett Ikerd (120; 1:03), Alex Latcham (126; 0:56), Waite (138; 1:00), Hazelett (145; 1:58), Van Weelden (152;3:28), Logan Escher (170; 5:16), Murphy (182; 3:52), Skubal (195; 0:46), and Huisenga (285; 0:28) posted pinfall victories.
Washington ran into Waukee’s varsity squad in the semifinal round of the tournament. The Demons bested the Warriors, 37-24. Washington’s wins by fall were recorded by Latcham (126; 0:52), Anderson (132; 2:35), Van Weelden (152; 2:53), and Skubal (195; 0:47). The Demons faced the No. 9 Johnston Dragons in the championship dual. Washington scored three wins by fall, four by decision, and one by technical fall to prevail, 35-30. Waite (138; 5:18), Skubal (195; 1:55), and Tanner Murphy (220; 326) recorded pins in the title dual.
Washington improves their dual record to 15-0 overall. The Demons close the first half of the season on Tuesday, hosting a quadrangular with Alburnett, Iowa City Regina, and Wapello. First grapples are set for 6 p.m. at Washington High School.