CHERRYVALE — Iola High wrestler Brice Aiello returned from Cherryvale Saturday sporting a gold medal.
The 145-pound freshman earned gold at a junior varsity tournament in Cherryvale by sweeping past his three opponents on the mat.
He pinned Matt Brungardt of Erie and Chase Davidson of Cherryvale before defeating Joey Hughbanks of Pittsburg High. Aiello also wrestled in an exhibition match, losing 2-0, with both of his opponents’ points coming from penalties against Aiello.
Aiello was one of three Iola wrestlers to compete at the tournament Saturday.
Jordan Long, a 160-pound sophomore, earned second place by going 2-2 on the day. He defeated Hunter Cress of Pittsburg by pin in the second round and in come-from-behind fashion against Trey Curtis of Burlington, 6-5.
Long overcame a late deficit with a reversal before adding back points in a 6-5 win.
Long lost to Clay Holloway of Cherryvale and Jordan Mason of Independence on the day.
Raymond Branstetter, a 152-pound senior, went 1-3 on the day. He defeated Bruce Wolken of Labette County High School by pin.
“Today was a good experience for all three of the wrestlers,” Mustang coach Brad Carson said. “It’s always good to get in a competition with different wrestlers. Repetition is the key to improvement. These guys have been looking forward to getting into a competition.”
The tournament was the final competition of the pre-Christmas schedule for Iola’s wrestling program. The Mustang varsity returns to action Jan. 3 at Fort Scott with Pittsburg. The JV squad travels to Burlington Jan. 5.
IHS wrestler golden at Cherryvale
