Tesar named MOW at Hunt Invitational

By News-Argus Staff
Published in Sports on November 26, 2007 1:48 PM

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WILSON -- Chris Tesar earned most outstanding wrestler honors and helped Eastern Wayne finish second overall in the annual Hunt Thanksgiving Invitational contested Saturday.

A senior, Tesar compiled a perfect record in the 125-pound weight class and remained unbeaten in eight outings this season. The division featured four returning state qualifiers, including Tesar, who defeated Havelock's Comaldy Becton in the finals.

The Warriors piled up 145 points, but ended up a distant second to tournament winner and perennial Class 3-A power Havelock, which amassed a whopping 207 points in the 14-team field. First Flight took third with 122 points, followed by Jacksonville (95) and traditional 1-A power Rosewood (90).

In addition to Tesar, senior Foy Coley emerged the 215-pound champion.

Drew Tesar (112 pounds) and A.J. Washington (135) each placed second in their respective weight class. Zach Hahn (140) and Jordan Harris (130) claimed third and fourth, respectively, in their divisions.

Rosewood coach Bill Edmundson describes the annual Thanksgiving tournament as "interesting." The official kickoff of the holiday season, some athletes travel out of town with their families, while others struggle to make weight.

"The best part is that you see who is dedicated and committed to the program," said Edmundson. "A fifth-place finish in this company (of teams) with today's lineup more than met (my) expectations.

"Six place-winners out of 11 wrestlers is a great day for Rosewood wrestling."

Junior Josh Holmes captured the 145-pound crown with a major decision, 16-7, over Manteo's Rick Bateman. Teammates J.D. Baker (125), Chris Hare (135) and heavyweight J.P. Person each ended up third.

Freshman 103-pounder Zach Behrend and junior 160-pounder Andrew Sass each finished fourth.

"We are extremely pleased with Josh's progress this year," said Edmundson. "He pushes himself and everyone around him in practice. Josh's work ethic in the practice room is showing up in these tournaments.

"J.D. wrestled a fantastic tournament. Andrew does what it takes to be successful. He beat Eastern Wayne and Havelock wrestlers. Anytime you can beat those guys you deserve a medal.

"Eventually, J.P. will wrestle the 215 class, but right now it is a battle between he and Trevor Morris every week in the practice room. The result will be two solid senior wrestlers anchoring the last two weight classes."

Josh Jones emerged Greene Central's top grappler with a fourth-place performance at heavyweight.

Eastern Wayne (1-1 overall) continues the dual portion of its season Tuesday evening at Washington. Rosewood opens its dual schedule at Wilson Beddingfield on the same evening. Both teams return to tournament action next Saturday in the annual Pierce-Davis Memorial at SouthWest Edgecombe.