Contributed report

Fans of Powhatan wrestling were rewarded for their loyalty last weekend as four wrestlers from the Indians’ squad earned a shot at the State Tournament on March 7 and 8.

Though the team had sent nine wrestlers to the regional tournament, only eight made the trip after Charlie Ayers fell ill prior to the competition.

Of those eight, team captains Blake Kierson, Chris Gerardi, and Stephen Dunbar all earned third place finishes and a coveted trip to the state championship.

Also heading to states will be fan favorite Joseph “The Hammer” Girgente, who took to the mat in the 103 pound match to cheers of “it’s Hammer time” and finished second. Both Sam Green and Josh Vaden were eliminated after two matches. Forrest Parker placed 6th overall. Vance Hendren finished in fifth place and will be an alternate at the state competition.

Powhatan finished 8th as a team with 80 points.