March 2007: Sandy Journal

Young Jordan Wrestling Team Shows Great Potential for Upcoming Years
by Skyler Hutchison

Although Jordan High wrestling finished in 16th place at the state tournament, Feb. 7, 8 and 9, the team tied for the region dual meet title and took second place in the region II wrestling tournament.

“Taking second at region was pretty solid,” said coach Christian Babinski. “They definitely exceeded my expectations at region.” Jordan had 17 dual meet wins and only eight losses.

Throughout the regular season the Beetdiggers had wrestlers place in several different tournaments including the Layton Invitational, Rocky Mountain Rumble, North Summit Invitational and the Jaguar Duals. Six wrestlers made it to the region tournament finals including freshman undefeated 112 pounds, Vincent To, sophomore undefeated 119 pounds, Cody Wharton, junior undefeated 152 pounds, Hayden Moss, sophomore undefeated 160 pounds, Brandon Poulson, senior 215 pounds, Brad Godinet and sophomore 285 pounds. Kyle Johnson. They will all be returning for another season except for senior Gondinet.

At the state tournament Jordan’s undefeated junior Moss placed fifth for the second time and will be returning next season to improve on his accomplishments. Three other sophomores Wharton, Poulson and Johnson were all one match away from placing in the state tournament, which is a “huge accomplishment for anyone, let alone a sophomore,” said Babinski.

At the start of the season Jordan’s varsity heavyweight Josh Hepworth experienced a season-ending injury, which required surgery and four screws placed in his ankle. Sophomore Kyle Johnson replaced him and was able to develop his skills all season. As a young team, of the 14 varsity weights represented this year only four were seniors. “Our team is full of youth and inexperience but they all gained varsity experience and will prove to pave the way for the future,” said Babinski.

The Beetdiggers had 11 wrestlers qualify for the state tournament, including 112-pound freshman Vincent To, 119-pound sophomore Cody Wharton, 119-
pound junior Ethan Clark, 130-pound junior Winston Haycock, 135-pound senior Carlin Kennelly, 140-pound senior Tyrael Pullan, 152-pound junior Hayden Moss, 160-pound sophomore Brandon Poulson, 189-pound junior Mike Bednarik, 215-pound senior Brad Godinet and 285-pound sophomore Kyle Johnson.

The team captains were Cody Wharton, Hayden Moss, Justin Maxwell and Brad Godinet.

The Jordan high wrestling coaching staff includes Brenton Ing, Chris Babinski and John Lundstrom.