NORMAN — Norman High had duals against Putnam City and Moore on Tuesday, but due to some injury concerns the Tigers’ varsity only took the mat for one.
After losing to Putnam City a week ago at district duals, coach Bo Maynes chose to rest his varsity for the rematch and instead, the teams fielded the junior varsities to compete.
The starters did take the mat against Moore, and the Lions prevailed 45-23.
“We were looking for some big wins in some individual matches,” Maynes said of the dual. “We ended up winning the matches we were supposed to and losing the ones we were supposed to.”
It was another in a string of tough matchups for NHS.
“A lot of our recent duals have been against teams that are either in the top 10 or right outside of it,” Maynes said.
Injuries at Norman High: The Norman High wrestling squad has faced its share of injuries this season. And while the injured list is growing, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for North.
Colin Pasque and Mike Stamp were already out for the Tigers, and heavyweight Harrison Madden joined them this week after injuring his shoulder.
The good news for the Tigers is that all three are expected to be back sometime in the next few weeks. Most importantly, the trio will be available before regionals, though Madden isn’t expected to return until the week of the tournament.
Mindful of the injuries, coach Bo Maynes is limiting the rest of his team in practice.
“We’re being extremely strategic with our practices,” he said. “We’re staying off the mat this week and doing some different workouts instead.”
Little Axe preparing for dual state: Little Axe is headed to the dual state championships for the fourth year in a row, and they are doing so behind a pair of talented seniors.
Seniors Walter Lynn and Austin Hodge have been dominant in leading Little Axe to state duals. Both seniors have been on the squad for each of the four consecutive trips to the tournament.
“Those are my two really bright spots,” coach Jim Love said. “They’ve been really good leaders for us.”
Indians hosting event: Little Axe will take on Blanchard at home at 6 p.m. today, and the match will double as a 20-year celebration for coach Jim Love as well as Senior Night.
“We’re really hoping a lot of people come out for the match,” Love said. “It’s going to be crowded in the gym tonight. It should be a good time.”
Corbin Hosler 366-3528 chosler@normantranscript.com
