LocalSportsJournal.com

KALAMAZOO — Had a couple of matches gone the other way, it’s difficult to guess just how the dual would have shaken out for the Hart wrestling team Friday night.

But, as it is that didn’t happen, and the Pirates saw their season come to an end with a 45-24 loss to Imlay City in the MHSAA Division 3 quarterfinals at the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo.  

“They were better than us today, that’s for sure,” said Hart coach Brad Atland.

“Imlay City took an early lead, and we just couldn’t catch up to them.  

“We got to within 15 points down toward the end, but then they picked up a couple big wins and that was all she wrote.”  

Julian Vasquez picked up an early win for the Pirates at 112 pounds, but a long dry spell followed as Imlay City gained a big lead that Hart failed to dent.

Hart’s next victory was recorded by Mason Cantu at 145 pounds. Also winning for the Pirates were Alex Hicks at 160, Zane Thomas at 171 and Leo Guadarrama at 189.  

Cantu and Guadarrama are both seniors who’ll be missed next year.  

“We had a couple matches not go our way, and it showed,” Atland added. “We were guessing on the match-ups, and they made a couple moves that made it a little more difficult for us.  

“But, the kids battled hard. The kids battled all year long, and they wrestled really well. I can’t say anything but positive things about them.  

“We’re definitely proud of what we’ve done, but we’d also like to build on where we’re at and keep the momentum going. Hopefully we have an opportunity to get back here next year.”  

Hart won its third consecutive regional title this year, and has a solid core group returning.