The Eagle Valley Devils wrestling team placed fourth at the Lake County Invitational in Leadville this past weekend.  The Devils placed five wrestlers in the finals and had two individual champions.

Senior Jimmy Benavides (103) had an outstanding tournament on his way to a championship knocking off three of the states elite 2A wrestlers.  "Jimmy was in the groove.  He looked unstoppable, "said head coach Ron Beard.

Senior Mason Ewing (135) continued his winning ways and appeared equally unstoppable. Three of Ewing's victories were first period pins. "Mason is on fire.  He is completely focused right now--his 19 pins this season prove that" said assistant coach Luke Cross.

Seniors Chris Harvey (145), Kylan Kottenstette (152), and Junior Brendan Best (171) all lost in their respective championship matches. "Kylan beat a three-time state champ, Chris knocked off an undefeated kid and Brendan had some horrible calls against him.  I am very proud of all the guys--they wrestled their hearts out" said Beard.

Freshman Joey Bajza (112), Sophomore Herman Hogue (145), and Senior Louis Romersheuser (275) each had one victory.  The tournament draws 16 teams from all over Colorado.  Rocky Ford placed 1st, Gunnison was 2nd.

Mike Morrissey's JV squad had a tougher time at the Grand Junction Tiger Invitational.  Junior Josh Wamboldt (103), Freshman Aaron Kerst (112) and Freshman Ryan Green (130) were the had the only 3 wins of the day.

The Devil wrestlers will be waiting tables at the Grand Avenue Grill on Sunday, January 29 from 5:00 to 10:00pm.  For reservations, call 328-4043.  All tips earned will go to the team to defray costs at the state tournament.  Tips must be in the form of cash or check.  The team would like to thank everyone for continued support.