*Former Falcon News reporter June Highburger contributed to this report
The Elmira Falcon wrestling came out victorious in their duel against the Springfield Millers on January 23, with the score of 60-15.
The honored seniors Gage Cooper, Brett Highburger, June Highburger, Summer Mckeen, Jude Spencer, Colton Barklow and team manager Mari Espinoza.
The Falcons had four head-to-head wins including six forfeits.
Brett Highburger at 285, sophomore Ryan Pew at 175, and ninth-grader Tucker Christiance at 190 and Jonah Cooper at 215 won their matches by pin in the first round.
McKeen had two matches at 130, the first match was unsuccessful, and then bounced back for the second match with a first round pin.
Head Wrestling coach Justin Peeler spoke with Falcon News about a few of the seniors.
Peeler praised Brett Highburger for his work ethic.
“Brett is a very talented and athletic wrestler. He has accomplished so much this past year. He is always working hard and trying to be the best in his weight class. He will meet his goals this season,” Peeler said.
Peeler complemented Spencer on his improvement this year.
“Jude has improved so much over the year. This has been his first season and he continues to listen and work hard in the wrestling room. I am so glad he came out this year and I know his track season will be great because of it,” Peeler stated.
Peeler commended June Highburger on her drive to always improve.
“June is one of our leaders on the team. She continues to work hard to be successful. She is constantly working on her technique to get better. She really wants to wrestle in college and I see her accomplishing her dream,” Peeler said.
Peeler applauded McKeen’s ability to help the younger members of the team.
“Summer is another leader on the team. Summer has so much great technique and she does a great job of passing that on to the younger girls on the team. She works so hard and wants to wrestle in college. I see her wrestling in college too,” Peeler said.
