On Saturday, the FHC wrestling team competed well at the Kent County Championships. With seven Rangers placing—girls and boys—at the tournament, it’s hard to say that the Rangers didn’t make their competition earn each victory.

Overall, sophomore Ashley Schenck and senior Remmie Gavle stood at second and third place in their respective weight classes, making them the most successful FHC wrestlers for the day. Behind the ladies was junior Michael Campbell in fourth, sophomore Josh Elzinga in fifth, juniors Landon Cook and Blake Jacobs in sixth, and senior Arash Kordbacheh in seventh.

Because of his team’s hard work on Saturday, head coach Brad Anderson was thrilled about how his wrestlers did against some of the top wrestlers around West Michigan.

“I’m proud of the overall effort at this tough holiday season tournament,” coach Anderson said. “It’s a good benchmark for the rest of the season.”

The top Ranger placing was Ashley Schenck, who placed second overall in her class. In addition to Ashley, Remmie Gavle finished in third. 

“Ashley had a good day and had a few solid wins; she will continue to get better and hopefully build on today’s finish,” coach Anderson said. 

After the two ladies dominated at the top, Michael Campbell had yet another fantastic day on the mats, placing fourth. Out of all the boys from FHC, Michael came the closest to standing on the podium.  

“Michael Campbell had an outstanding day by placing fourth at 145 pounds,” coach Anderson said. “Wrestling at his first Kent county championship, he proved that he could compete with the best.”

Although Michael had an incredible day, he believes that the work is never finished and that there are always ways to improve. 

“I think I wrestled very well; I placed 4th in my bracket,” Michael said. “But, there is always room for improvement.”  

After Michael, sophomore Josh Elzinga finished in fifth place with a respectable performance. 

“Josh stuck to the game plan and gutted out some close matches; he’s on the right track,” coach Anderson said. 

The last two Rangers that placed were Blake Jacobs and Landon Cooke, who both got sixth for the day. 

The wrestling team will be back and ready to go on Wednesday, December 22, at the Coopersville Military Tournament, where each wrestler will show up prepared to command the mat.

“We have some things to work on and will be back in the wrestling room Monday getting better,” coach Anderson said.