Merrimack sends 6 qualifiers to compete in the 10th annual Youth New England Wrestling Championship Tournament

The Merrimack Youth Wrestling Program competed in the Youth New England Wrestling Championship Tournament held in Salem, MA on March 12-13, 2016.  This tournament is known as "the most competitive youth wrestling tournament in New England," drawing the best talent from CT, MA, NH, RI, VT and ME.  In order to qualify wrestlers must have placed in their respective home state championship tournaments. 

The level of competition found in this tournament is unparalleled with an alumni resume featuring numerous high school state and New England champions and place finishers, as well as collegiate All-Americans.  Those wrestlers who place at "New Englands" represent a "who's who" in New England wrestling circles.  Merrimack's own Aiden Hanning, grade 7, stepped into that elite group by taking second place in the 118 lb weight class.  He dominated his first three opponents with strong decision wins.  His only blemish came in the championship bout where he fell short by a mere point.

Seventh grader, Anson Dewar also competed in the tournament against brutally tough competition in the Middle School 100 lb bracket.  He had three wins on the day but fell short of the podium with a loss to a Masco opponent via a last second score.

Eighth grader, Griffin Ostrom from Merrimack also competed strongly in the 130 lb weight class.  He narrowly fell in his first match by 2 points but failed to place on the day. 

Third grader Ivey Johnson and fourth graders, Owen Forrest and Mitchell Krupp qualified for the Intermediate (3 & 4) division with their finishes in the NH State Championship Tournament.  All competed well but failed to place in the event.

Photo caption 1: Hanning collects his runner-up honors

Photo caption 2: Johnson works a take down

Photo caption 3: Forrest sprawls on his opponent

Photo caption 4: Krupp ready to start match